Significance of Siemens' Eco-Friendly Tech at WEF Davos 2025

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Siemens' installation of a new energy system for Davos comes ahead of the 2025 summit of the World Economic Forum | Credit: WEF
Siemens deploys climate-neutral switchgear in Davos, powering WEF 2025 with Clean Air tech, advancing sustainable infrastructure for alpine summit

Global powerhouse Siemens steps into the spotlight with the deployment its innovative blue GIS medium-voltage system in the scenic alpine town of Davos, Switzerland.

This town, known not just for its breathtaking landscapes but also as the host for the prestigious World Economic Forum’s (WEF) annual summit — this year taking place from 20 January — represents an ideal venue for this cutting-edge technology rollout.Commissioned by Elektrizitätswerk Davos AG (EWD), the Siemens installation executes a crucial shift from traditional switchgear that utilises sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) to an environmentally friendly Clean Air insulating gas.

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This strategic change not only fosters a new standard for eco-sensitive energy infrastructure but also supports sustainability in power distribution.

A climate-conscious solution for Davos

The new system, stationed at the Dorf substation, serves a dual purpose.

Firstly, it significantly reduces the environmental footprint previously exacerbated by SF6, a potent greenhouse gas.

In contrast, the Clean Air insulation medium used comprises merely natural components from the ambient air.

"The climate-neutral insulation medium used, which is comprised exclusively of natural components from ambient air, is a game changer, removing the need for fluorinated gases," says Jon Turner, Head of Siemens Distribution Systems Businesses for the UK and Ireland.

Jon Turner, Head of Siemens Distribution Systems Businesses for the UK and Ireland | Credit: Siemens Ireland

Davos, sitting at a lofty 1,560 metres above sea level, plays host to a robust influx of visitors annually, particularly during peak times such as the WEF summit.

Sustainable and reliable energy solutions are essential owing to the city's considerable overnight guest traffic, which recorded more than 1.3 million in 2023 alone.

These figures underscore the pressing need for sustainable energy solutions — lending themselves to the unique landscape of Davos.

Innovating for reliability and sustainability

The core of Siemens’ strategic approach to sustainability in Davos is its pioneering 8DAB 24 switchgear system, a part of the wider blue GIS portfolio, designed explicitly for robust performance and minimal environmental impact.

Andy Kollegger, CEO of EWD, says: “SF6 was never ideal for the environment.

Andy Kollegger, CEO of EWD | Credit: Six

"There was no doubt in our minds: If there is an alternative on the market that has the same functionality but without this disadvantage, we will switch to it,” he explains, highlighting the critical need for progressive environmental stewardship within the power sector.

Bridging the digital and physical worlds

Enhancing the innovative quotient of the GIS system is its integration with Siemens' Electrification X platform, a component of the expansive Xcelerator Internet of Things suite.

This digital infrastructure not only facilitates real-time monitoring but also enhances efficiency and operational readiness for both public and private grid systems in Davos.Meeting Davos’ extensive energy demands head-on, EWD leverages Siemens' technology across a vast network that includes three substations, 168 transformer stations and more than 450 kilometres of power lines.

Andy Kollegger, CEO of EWD Elektrizitätswerk Davos AG, Valérie Favre-Accola, Governor of Davos, Matthias Rebellius, Member of the Managing Board of Siemens AG and CEO Siemens Smart Infrastructure (from left to right) | Credit: Siemens

This digital-physical interface supplied by Siemens ensures that the city's energy system remains both sustainable and highly functional, critical for supporting everything from local residences to international forums like the WEF.

Davos' broader commitment to environmental sustainability extends beyond power systems to include renewable heat and hydropower, reflecting over a century of responsible energy management.

Matthias Rebellius, CEO of Siemens Smart Infrastructure, sums up the sentiment by emphasising the importance of investing in infrastructure capable of meeting tomorrow’s energy requirements.

“If we want to achieve our net zero targets, we need to make power grids future-ready with innovative, eco-friendly technology,” he says.

Matthias Rebellius, Member of the Managing Board of Siemens AG and CEO of Siemens Smart Infrastructure​ | Credit: Siemens

“I am pleased that our long-standing customer EWD is using our pioneering switchgear technology that paves the way for climate-neutral and smart power distribution in Davos.”


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