When the power goes out, modern life stops. However, power outages are becoming more and more frequent. One reason for this: As demand for electricity grows, the infrastructure that provides it is aging. In some industrialized countries, the transformers and switchgears that make up the power grid date back to the middle of the last century. They are not designed to handle fluctuating power from renewable sources. A system upgrade based on innovative products and materials is required.

The increasing use of electric vehicles will intensify future load fluctuations. Smart grid technology that aggregates total capacities will help meet future energy needs.

Changing standards are also important. SF6 gas, a common substance used in the past to seal transformers and switchgear, is being phased out in favor of more environmentally friendly technology such as nitrogen, CO2 or Green Gas for Grid (g3). These options will require new sealing solutions.