Global SF₆ Pledge Launch Event

UNFCCC COP 31, German Pavilion, Thursday 19 Nov 2026, 12:00-13:00

Background

The global expansion and modernization of electricity grids is essential for the energy transition. At the same time, the continued use of sulphur hexafluoride (SF₆) in electrical switchgear risks locking in avoidable greenhouse gas emissions for decades. SF₆ is the most potent known greenhouse gas, with a 100-year global warming potential of around 24,300 times that of CO₂, and it remains in the atmosphere for more than 1,000 years. SF₆-free technologies are already available for many applications, while emissions from existing equipment can be reduced through improved leak prevention, recovery, recycling and end-of-life management. Germany will launch the voluntary Global SF₆ Pledge at this event. The Pledge will bring together governments and other stakeholders to accelerate the transition to SF₆-free technologies in new power sector infrastructure, improve the management of existing SF₆-containing equipment and strengthen international cooperation on capacity building, monitoring and reporting, technology, and finance.

The CTCN is part of the Global SF₆ Initiative together with GIZ and the World Bank. Since 2023, the CTCN has supported countries in reducing SF₆ emissions through capacity building and technical assistance, including projects in Kenya and Senegal that address SF₆-free alternatives and the safe management of SF₆ in the power sector. Through this work, the CTCN helps countries turn the Pledge’s commitments into concrete action.

Topics

Agenda