10 October 2022
WindEurope suggested amendments to F-gas regulation
WindEurope welcomes the European Commission’s proposal on a new regulation on fluorinated greenhouse gases that will ensure the gradual phase-out of SF6 in electrical switchgear. But the proposed SF6 phase-out must be done on a timely and realistic manner to ensure the supply chain can scale up production of all necessary SF6-free solutions.
The phase-out of SF6 must also not undermine the safe operation of existing grid infrastructure. Retroactive measures will reduce the safety and reliability of the power grid, create additional supply bottlenecks, and slow down the deployment and connection of new wind farms.
We therefore recommend policymakers to amend the proposed F-gas regulation by:
- Setting a single and clear threshold of 1,000 Global Warming Potential for high-voltage electrical switchgear to support a competitive market of low impact SF6-free equipment.
- Adjusting the definition of ‘placing on the market’ to acknowledge the long lead-time of projects in the energy sector, most notably grid development projects.
- Allowing exemptions for spare parts and components necessary to maintain existing electrical infrastructure.
- Including technology maturity and market availability as evidence criteria for possible exemptions.
