Hitachi Energy To Deliver An Eco-Efficient Electrification Solution For Nordic Ren-Gas' E-Methane Production Facility In Finland

Grid connection and electrification technologies will support the production of renewable e-methane and district heating, helping to fuel heavy road transport and reduce fossil fuel use and emissions in Finland and broader in Europe

Hitachi Energy has signed an agreement with Nordic Ren-Gas to deliver an integrated electrification solution to support its synthetic e-methane production plant (Power-to-Gas) in Tampere, Finland. Based on a systems approach, the project combines eco-efficient grid connection and power quality technologies to support the reliable operation of the facility, including the deployment of a 145-kilovolt (kV), SF₆-free, EconiQ¹ gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) and power and distribution transformers.

The European market for renewable synthetic fuels is entering a new phase of growth driven by the EU's Renewable Fuels of Non-Biological Origin (RFNBO) regulation. As part of this framework, fuel suppliers across all EU Member States must gradually incorporate renewable, hydrogen-based synthetic fuels into their fuel mix, creating long-term demand for e-methane and other Power-to-X fuels. The Tampere facility addresses this growing market need by producing renewable e-methane for heavy-duty transport and supporting Europe's decarbonization targets for the transport sector.

High-voltage switchgear is a critical component of the power grid, and its importance is even more pronounced as the energy transition advances. Traditionally, high-voltage switchgear has relied heavily on SF₆, the most potent greenhouse gas known, with a Global Warming Potential of 24,300 times that of an equivalent amount of CO₂. By eliminating SF₆ emissions, Hitachi Energy’s EconiQ technology reinforces Nordic Ren-Gas’ commitment to minimizing its environmental impact and advancing a more sustainable grid. Its compact design is ideally suited for urban environments while minimizing both lifecycle costs and carbon footprint.²

Nordic Ren-Gas’ synthetic e-methane production plant in Tampere will produce renewable synthetic e-methane and district heating, with green hydrogen serving as an intermediate input in the production process. The production plant will form part of the production and distribution chain for clean Power-to-X (P2X) fuels for transport, supporting the transition to low-carbon transport. The plant will annually produce enough renewable e-methane to fuel, for example, approximately 500 heavy-duty trucks and carbon-free district heating sufficient to cover the annual heat consumption of 35,000 two-room apartments. As a result, fossil fuel use and carbon dioxide emissions will be significantly reduced.

“We are delighted to be involved in this flagship project supporting Finland’s clean electrification and the development of a clean fuel production and distribution chain for heavy-duty transport.

Our eco-efficient high-voltage technology minimizes carbon emissions and serves as an excellent example of the advanced sustainable technologies that are helping build the clean energy future.” - Matti Vaattovaara Managing Director Hitachi Energy Finland

Hitachi Energy will deliver an integrated electrification solution to connect the facility to the grid safely and efficiently. By combining technologies as a system, the solution is designed to support a reliable power supply, stable operation, and future-ready performance for Nordic Ren-Gas’ Power-to-Gas production process.

“Our cooperation with Hitachi Energy ensures a reliable and future-ready electrification solution for our Tampere facility. Demand for European e-methane is growing rapidly, and the renewable e-methane produced in Tampere will help meet this demand while enhancing security of supply and reducing emissions.” - Jarno Toivainen Electrical Manager Nordic Ren-Gas Oy

Construction of the synthetic e-methane production plant in Tampere has started, with commercial operations scheduled to commence in 2029.

The project also supports the broader shift toward sustainable grid technologies in line with evolving European regulation. The European Parliament and Council Regulation (EU) 2024/573, which came into force in 2024, restricts and phases out the use of fluorinated greenhouse gases, including SF₆ switchgear applications, by 2032. Depending on the voltage level, restrictions are already in effect, with a gradual phase-out planned over the coming years.³

¹ EconiQ is Hitachi Energy’s eco-efficient sustainability portfolio, offering products, services, and solutions with exceptional environmental performance.

² Up to 99 percent lower carbon footprint compared with conventional SF₆-based equipment.

³ Regulation (EU) 2024/573 on fluorinated greenhouse gases.