How Siemens is Reimagining the Energy System of Davos
Siemens, a global leader in technology, has enhanced its commitment to sustainable power solutions by installing the ground-breaking blue GIS medium-voltage system in Davos, Switzerland.
This initiative showcases significant advancements in power distribution technology and underlines Siemensâ role in fostering sustainable infrastructure.
The picturesque town of Davos, known for hosting the World Economic Forum's (WEF) annual summit, is an ideal location for this technological deployment.
The upcoming summit, scheduled for January 20, 2025, sets the scene for global leaders to witness this innovative technology in action.
Siemens' installation has been commissioned by ElektrizitÀtswerk Davos AG (EWD), a local utility company.
'A game changer'
The blue GIS system, located at the Dorf substation, serves as a transformative upgrade from the conventional switchgear that relied on sulfur hexafluoride (SF6).
Siemens has replaced SF6 with a Clean Air insulating gas which conforms to the highest standards of environmental protection.
Jon Turner, Head of Siemens Distribution Systems Businesses for the UK and Ireland, explains: "The climate-neutral insulation medium used, which is comprised exclusively of natural components from ambient air, is a game changer, removing the need for fluorinated gases."
Davos is not just any setting; it stands as Europe’s highest city situated 1,560 metres above sea level.
The alpine town is renowned for its scenic beauty and serves as a policy-making hub during the WEF summits.
With its substantial rise in population and visitors during peak seasons—reaching over 40,000 on top of 1.3 million overnight guests in 2023—the energy usage spikes considerably.
Through this installation, EWD aligns its operational strategies with real sustainable action.
“SF6 was never ideal for the environment," says Andy Kollegger, CEO of EWD.
"There was no doubt in our minds: if there is an alternative on the market that has the same functionality but without this disadvantage, we will switch to it.”
How this new technology works
The blue GIS 8DAB 24 switchgear forms part of Siemens' portfolio designed to set benchmarks in low-impact power technologies.
Unlike SF6, known for its potent greenhouse effects, the new Clean Air insulation compound consists entirely of natural components, ensuring it is non-toxic and non-flammable.
This pioneering approach not only meets EU standards that call for reduced SF6 usage, but dramatically enhances the ecological profile of electrical grids.
"If we want to achieve our net zero targets, we need to make power grids future-ready with innovative, eco-friendly technology,” says Matthias Rebellius, CEO of Siemens Smart Infrastructure.
His reflection reinforces Siemens’ commitment to driving technological advancements in line with global environmental targets.
Unique demands for a unique location
The integration of smart sensors and interfaces within the switchgear connects to Siemens' cutting-edge Electrification X platform, a core component of the companyâs Xcelerator IoT suite.
This digital innovation allows for real-time monitoring and greater energy efficiency, crucial for both public and private grid operators looking to optimise performance and sustainability.
Handling the unique demands of a location like Davos, where renewable energy and a robust infrastructure comprising three substations and over 450 kilometres of power lines is critical, Siemens’ technology provides the necessary support.
It addresses both the environmental and operational requirements essential for maintaining the town’s energy resilience, which has been sustained for over 130 years by EWD.
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