SF6 Ban Effective 2026: Impact & Compliance Guide

Latest NewsJune 29, 2025July 9, 2025byReeload

EU SF₆ Switchgear Ban — What to Expect Before 2026

The clock is ticking. Starting in 2026, the European Union will begin phasing out SF₆ gas in new switchgear. The ban affects medium-voltage systems first, with high-voltage categories to follow soon after.

While existing equipment can continue operating, the days of installing SF₆-based systems are numbered. If your company works with electrical infrastructure, this affects you.

Why SF₆ is Being Phased Out

SF₆ has long been used in switchgear because of its excellent insulating and arc-extinguishing qualities. However, it is also one of the most harmful greenhouse gases in use today.

It has a global warming potential more than 25,000 times higher than CO₂
It remains in the atmosphere for thousands of years
Its emissions have been rising rapidly in recent decades

In short, it is not compatible with long-term climate goals. That is why the EU has committed to ending its use in new equipment.

Key Deadlines You Should Know

The new F-Gas Regulation (EU 2024/573) was introduced in March 2024. It sets a clear timeline for the SF₆ phase-out across various voltage levels.

From 1 January 2026, SF₆ is banned in new switchgear up to 24 kV
From 1 January 2028, the ban extends to 52–145 kV switchgear
From 1 January 2030, it includes 24–52 kV systems
From 1 January 2032, it covers all new installations above 145 kV

Existing systems are allowed to stay in operation, but only if they are not moved or expanded after the ban dates.

Who is Affected by the Ban

This regulation impacts a wide group of professionals, from technical teams to procurement and project planners. If you are involved in grid operations or large-scale installations, you will need to act soon.

Utilities and grid operators
Electrical equipment manufacturers and OEMs
Industrial and data center project developers
Contractors and certified installers working with HV and MV gear

Future projects will require certified SF₆-free technology. Technicians will also need to update their qualifications to meet stricter handling and maintenance standards.

What SF₆-Free Alternatives Are Available

The good news is that viable alternatives already exist. Many are already in use across Europe and beyond. These technologies meet both performance and environmental standards.

Vacuum interrupters used widely in medium-voltage systems
Dry air or nitrogen insulation for zero-emission operation
Low-GWP gas blends like fluoronitrile mixtures
Solid insulation systems that require no gas at all

Leading manufacturers such as ABB, Siemens Energy, GE, Schneider Electric, and Casram have already launched proven SF₆-free solutions on the market.

How to Prepare

If your organization uses or supplies electrical switchgear, the time to prepare is now. Early planning will save time, reduce cost, and prevent last-minute disruptions.

Audit your existing SF₆ inventory
Develop a phase-out and replacement strategy
Contact suppliers to secure SF₆-free products in time
Schedule training for staff and installation teams
Stay updated on compliance rules and certification requirements

Delaying this process may lead to regulatory penalties, delayed installations, or long lead times on compliant products.

What This Means for the Industry

The SF₆ ban is not just a regulation. It represents a major shift in how we design and maintain energy infrastructure. Companies that move early will not only be compliant. They will be seen as leaders in environmental responsibility and future-proof engineering.

The switch to cleaner alternatives is no longer a question of technology. It is a matter of commitment and planning. The tools are ready. The regulations are clear. What happens next is up to each player in the field.