University of Manchester and National Grid named Best Innovation in Net Zero

National Grid and The University of Manchester have been named 'Best Innovation in Net Zero and Sustainability' at the E&T Innovation Awards for their commitment to developing a retrofill solution to replace SF6. SF6 is a gas commonly used in the power industry to provide electrical insulation and arc interruption. However, SF6 is a potent greenhouse gas with a global warming potential that is 25,200 times greater than CO2+. This award reflects the significant steps taken by Manchester experts and National Grid to address this issue, closing the gap between an unsustainable present and a more sustainable future. Celebrating an initial project delivered in 2020, today's award comes as Manchester and National Grid confirm their commitment to addressing the challenge. Earlier this year, the team announced a £1.9m project that will see experts at Manchester help determine how National Grid can develop a retrofill solution to replace SF6 with an environmentally friendlier alternative - without having to replace or otherwise modify the existing equipment. This solution - to be demonstrated at National Grid's test facility the Deeside Centre for Innovation - will mean National Grid can avoid the environmental impact and cost of replacing equipment otherwise fit for many more years' service.