"This tender represents an essential strategic step for the modernization and consolidation of our medium voltage networks. By purchasing state-of-the-art non-detachable medium voltage circuit breakers, we ensure that the power distribution network becomes not only safer and more efficient, but also more resilient in the face of operational challenges. In this way, we contribute to increasing the quality and reliability of the services we offer," said Mihai Pește, general manager of Rețele Electrice.
By organizing this tender, Rețele Electrice Muntenia underlines its commitment to constantly invest in state-of-the-art technologies, designed to transform the distribution network into a modern, reliable system capable of supporting long-term economic and social development. The implementation of these advanced technical solutions will contribute not only to increasing customer satisfaction through a more stable and efficient energy supply, but also to adapting the grid to the future requirements of the ever-evolving energy market.
The purchase of this equipment will significantly contribute to increasing protection against overloads and short circuits, while increasing the resilience of the grid to failures and unforeseen events, thus reducing power outage periods and improving the overall reliability of the system.
In addition, this acquisition has an essential eco-friendly component, complying with the latest sustainability requirements of the European Union. By replacing the old circuit breakers, which function with mineral oil, the Rețele Electrice companies are taking an important step in reducing their impact on the environment. At the same time, the new switches exclude the use of SF6 gas, a powerful greenhouse gas. Thus, this technical solution complies with EU requirements, which require the elimination of equipment using SF6 by January 1, 2026.
24kV three-pole non-breaking vacuum switched circuit breakers are devices used in medium voltage (MV) power grids, which are designed to cut off the power supply in the event of a fault or overload. These switches are especially used in medium voltage installations where it is important that the equipment is robust and reliable in the long term, eliminating the need for frequent interventions for their maintenance.
The Rețele Electrice companies operate networks with a total length of about 134,000 kilometers in three important areas of the country: Muntenia Sud (including Bucharest), Banat and Dobrogea, covering a third of the local distribution market, and are developing an investment program to improve the quality of services, safety and performance of the networks and the local implementation of the environmental standards of the PPC group. The electrical networks operated by the three Rețele Electrice companies number 289 transformer stations and over 25,000 transformer substations.
