Sustainability

Responsibility for tomorrow

Hivoduct pressurized air cables offer one of the most sustainable solutions in modern grid connections by combining a variety of environmentally friendly and resource-saving aspects.

Lowest losses - highest efficiency

Avoiding and replacing SF6-Gas and PFAS Gases

SF6 – The Most Potent Greenhouse Gas
SF6 (sulfur hexafluoride) is the most powerful greenhouse gas, with a global warming potential (GWP) of 23,000. It is currently used in various High-Voltage equipment for insulation, but is no longer permitted in new installations and must be maintained in a closed-loop system with bookkeeping by grid operators.
Pressurized Air Cables - A PFAS-Free Alternative
In pressurized air cables, SF6 gas has been replaced with pressurized air, which causes no greenhouse gas emissions. The GWP of pressurized air is 0, enabling a significant reduction in potential environmental impact.
Reduction of SF6 Emissions
In Switzerland alone, approximately 600 tons of SF6 are currently used in HV equipment, with annual emissions of around 600 kg SF6. Switching to pressurized air cables can significantly reduce this amount.

No concrete in trenches for laying cables

XLPE cable laying using concrete
Conventional cable systems are often installed in concrete duct blocks for mechanical protection and thermal stabilization, generating significant CO₂ emissions during construction. In Switzerland, concrete has a CO₂ footprint of approximately 200 kg CO₂ per m³.
Pressurized Air Cables - No Need for Concrete
Due to their mechanical robustness and low losses, pressurized air cables do not require concrete duct blocks, eliminating both the costs and CO₂ emissions associated with these structures.

Optimized infrastructure - upgrading neighbourhoods

Reusable Infrastructure
By enabling the installation of pressurized air cables in existing tunnels and ducts, existing infrastructure can be utilized, reducing the need for new construction and the associated resource consumption and emissions.
No Corona Noise or Electromagnetic Fields
Pressurized air cables generate no corona noise and are not visible, improving the aesthetic quality of the environment while also eliminating electromagnetic fields that could disturb residents. This enhances the surroundings of high-voltage lines when using pressurized air cables.
Trenchless Installation
With trenchless installation in microtunnels, construction work is only required at access shafts, reducing excavation and land use while minimizing disruption to residents.

Fire protection and personal safety

Less maintanence and extended lifetime

Choosing Hivoduct pressurized air cables is a forward-thinking decision for companies that want to invest in innovative, sustainable technology while actively contributing to climate protection.