Schneider Electric has partnered with BSES Rajdhani Power Limited (BRPL) to introduce India’s first pilot project featuring an SF6-free Ring Main Unit (RMU) for medium-voltage power distribution. The project marks a significant step towards cleaner and more efficient electricity networks by replacing conventional SF6 gas insulation with pure air technology.
The pilot deployment includes Schneider Electric’s RM AirSeT 12kV Indoor Ring Main Unit integrated with the T300 Field Remote Terminal Unit (FRTU). The solution enables remote monitoring and control through BRPL’s SCADA network, helping improve grid visibility, operational efficiency and reliability while reducing environmental impact.
The deployment is expected to prevent nearly 75 tonnes of CO2 equivalent emissions during the capital investment phase by eliminating the use of SF6 gas, one of the most potent greenhouse gases used in electrical equipment. The project supports India’s efforts to modernize its power distribution infrastructure while advancing sustainability goals.
Delhi’s electricity demand continues to grow rapidly, with peak demand expected to cross 9,000 MW due to urban expansion and increasing cooling requirements. Utilities are therefore focusing on advanced technologies that improve network performance while reducing carbon emissions. The new RM AirSeT solution has been designed to provide reliable medium-voltage power distribution without the environmental concerns associated with SF6-based equipment.
Deepak Sharma, Zone President – Greater India, Managing Director and CEO of Schneider Electric India, said the country’s energy transition requires sustainability to become an integral part of every infrastructure investment. He noted that cleaner technologies across transmission and distribution networks will play a vital role in meeting rising power demand while supporting India’s decarbonisation targets. He added that the partnership with BRPL demonstrates how utilities and technology providers can work together to build a more sustainable power ecosystem.
Udai Singh, Managing Director and CEO of Schneider Electric Infrastructure Limited and Vice President – Power Systems, Schneider Electric India, said the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to building resilient and digitally enabled electricity networks. He added that modern distribution systems will play a key role in improving grid reliability while accelerating the adoption of environmentally friendly technologies.
The project also represents an important manufacturing milestone. The RM AirSeT 12kV Indoor RMUs were supplied from Schneider Electric’s global SBMV manufacturing facility, while the T300 FRTU integration was completed at the company’s Medium Voltage India (MVI) plant. This combination enabled greater customization to meet BRPL’s operational requirements.
To support the deployment, Schneider Electric provided specialized technical training for Indian engineering teams at its Advanced Manufacturing Technology facility in Hungary, strengthening local expertise in SF6-free switchgear and digital grid technologies. A BRPL official said the utility continues to evaluate innovative technologies that improve network performance while supporting environmental commitments. According to the company, the pilot has provided valuable insights into how connected and SF6-free solutions can strengthen the future development of India’s electricity distribution network.
Besides reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the RM AirSeT solution removes concerns related to SF6 leakage during operation and eliminates the need for gas recovery and recycling at the end of equipment life. The technology also delivers long-term operational reliability and supports safer, more sustainable grid infrastructure.
Schneider Electric is a global leader in energy management and automation, helping industries, businesses and homes improve energy efficiency and accelerate sustainability. Its portfolio combines electrification, automation and digital technologies to create connected, intelligent ecosystems across buildings, data centres, industrial facilities, infrastructure and power grids.
The company offers a wide range of solutions, including smart devices, software platforms, AI-enabled systems, digital services and consulting expertise that enhance operational efficiency, resilience and environmental performance. With a workforce of more than 160,000 employees and a network of over one million partners across more than 100 countries, Schneider Electric continues to support customers worldwide in their transition towards a more sustainable and energy-efficient future.
