RUEIL-MALMAISON, France, Aug 6, 2025 – Schneider Electric has signed a framework agreement with E.ON to support the deployment of sustainable and digital-ready energy infrastructure across Europe. The agreement includes supplying SF6-free medium-voltage (MV) switchgear and digital technologies to help meet environmental and operational goals.
Strategic importance of the contract
The collaboration between Schneider Electric and E.ON is founded on a shared objective: building the energy grids of the future – grids that are sustainable and efficient. This partnership builds on over two decades of cooperation between the two companies.
“In order to actively shape the green transformation in Germany, we are investing massively in a future-proof energy infrastructure. This long-term contract secures access to SF6-free technologies, supports standardization and enables a cost-efficient implementation of the energy transition,” said Lisbeth Buschkühl, chief procurement officer of E.ON SE.
Schneider Electric has entered into a agreement to supply GM-AirSeT primary switchgear panels and RM-AirSeT secondary switchgear panels (Ring Main Units, RMUs) – to E.ON on an annual basis. Before signing the agreement, Westnetz (an E.ON subsidiary), launched a pilot project with SF₆-free gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) to evaluate its performance and fit for E.ON’s needs. Under the agreement, Schneider Electric will meet part of E.ON’s demand for both primary and secondary switchgear. This decision reflects E.ON’s assurance in the capabilities and design of AirSeT technology.
“This agreement with E.ON is a powerful example of accelerating the shift to more sustainable, digital energy infrastructure. By working with E.ON to deploy SF₆-free technologies, we’re not only helping satisfy new regulatory requirements – we’re shaping the future of electricity in Europe,” said Melton Chang, executive vice president of Power Systems at Schneider Electric.
For the past 15 years, Schneider Electric has focused on developing an SF₆-free medium voltage portfolio for both secondary and primary distribution grids. Facilities in Regensburg, Germany, and the Duna Smart Factory in Hungary are central in producing and delivering this contract. Schneider Electric has also invested in expanding its manufacturing capacity in Europe to support the demand for SF₆-free technologies, reflecting the company’s commitment to sustainable solutions.
By standardizing key components across its German grid companies, E.ON has created a foundation for deploying next-gen switchgear made in Europe. These products enhance the efficiency of the energy grid and support E.ON’s sustainability goals.
Transition to SF₆-free technology and compliance with new GHG regulations
The greenhouse gas SF₆ has a global warming potential (GWP) of 24,300, i.e one kilogram has the same impact as 24,300 kg of CO₂. It remains in the atmosphere for about 1,000 years, making its environmental effects long-lasting. New European Union F-gas rules will ban SF₆ and similar gases in medium-voltage switchgear up to 24 kV starting January 1, 2026. This move will phase out SF₆ in power distribution.
Schneider Electric helps customers meet these regulations with a range of SF₆-free switchgear and production centers in Europe. The company plans to add air-insulated and gas-insulated switchgear options that don’t use SF₆ to meet various needs and regions.
AirSeT technology validated and recognized
AirSeT technology uses pure air and vacuum to replace SF6 in switchgear. It has earned recognition for design quality, including the iF Design Award for the RM AirSeT model. Field tests in industrial and grid settings – such as projects with Romande Energie in Switzerland and EAM Netz in Germany – have demonstrated its performance.
Source: Schneider Electric
About Schneider Electric
Schneider Electric, founded in 1836, is a leader in energy management and automation. Headquartered in Rueil-Malmaison, France, the company delivers digital solutions that integrate energy technologies, real-time automation, software, and services across multiple sectors. Schneider Electric serves many industries, including buildings, data centers, infrastructure, and manufacturing, helping businesses improve efficiency, safety, and sustainability. Its offerings span electrical distribution, industrial automation, and smart grid and digital building technologies. As of 2024, the company reported annual revenues of €38 billion and a net income of €4.3 billion. Schneider Electric operates in over 100 countries and has approximately 168,000 employees. Its ecosystem includes over a million partners, making it a key player in delivering scalable, innovative solutions for an electric and digital world.
About E.ON
E.ON SE, founded in 2000 through the merger of VEBA and VIAG, is a multinational electric utility headquartered in Essen, Germany. With operations in more than 30 countries, the company serves over 50M customers, providing electricity, natural gas, energy networks, and infrastructure solutions. E.ON focuses on energy distribution, grid modernization, and customer solutions that support energy efficiency and the integration of renewable sources. In fiscal 2024, the company reported approximately €80.1B (about $86.7B) in revenue and net income of €4.9B. E.ON employs around 75,000 people and remains one of Europe’s premium energy providers. With over 20 years in operation, E.ON provides energy system upgrades and utility services to residential, commercial, and industrial customers in Europe and North American markets.