Energy specialist strikes Japanese technology deal

A Leicestershire energy technology specialist has agreed a partnership to introduce new high-voltage equipment to the UK market.

Loughborough-based BRUSH Group has signed a memorandum of understanding with Japanese manufacturer Meidensha Corporation to supply its 145kV SF6-free circuit breakers to British electricity network operators for the first time.

The agreement, signed in Tokyo by BRUSH chief executive Nicolas Pitrat and Meidensha managing executive officer Shinichiro Kon, will support the protection and reliability of critical power infrastructure.

Under the partnership, Meidensha will manufacture and supply the equipment, while BRUSH will oversee marketing, sales, installation, testing, commissioning and ongoing maintenance.

The circuit breakers use dry air rather than fluorinated gases for insulation, offering a more environmentally friendly alternative with zero global warming potential from the insulating medium.

Nicolas said: “This collaboration combines Meidensha’s advanced high-voltage technology with BRUSH’s established UK presence and experienced field engineering teams to deliver tangible benefits to DNOs, TSOs and independent network operators.

“This partnership represents an important step towards accelerating the adoption of sustainable high-voltage technologies and supporting the UK’s transition to a more resilient, low-carbon electricity network.”

Meidensha, a pioneer in vacuum interrupter technology, developed its first 145kV-class interrupter in 1977 and introduced its 145kV SF6-free circuit breaker in 2022.

The partnership will give Meidensha access to the UK electricity grid market while expanding BRUSH’s offering to network operators.

Shinichiro Kon added: “Through this strategic partnership with BRUSH, we will supply our proven, eco-friendly high-voltage technology to the UK power sector for the first time. 

“By deploying these advanced F-gas-free circuit breakers, the two companies will work in partnership to support UK network operators in pursuing network resilience and net-zero targets by providing reliable, climate-friendly alternatives to conventional SF6 circuit breakers.”

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