Siemens' long-standing customer EWD Elektrizitätswerk Davos AG was looking for a pioneering switchgear technology that paves the way for climate-neutral and smart power distribution in Davos. With over 1.3 million overnight guests in 2023, Davos is one of Switzerland’s biggest tourist destinations. It is also the venue for the World Economic Forum (WEF) that sees almost 3,000 guests flocking to the town each year. While close to 12,000 residents live in the highest town in the Alps year-round, Davos accommodates over 40,000 people during high season. EWD Elektrizitätswerk Davos AG operates three substations, 168 transformer stations, 154 kilometers of medium-voltage grid and 300 kilometers of low-voltage grid in the Davos grid area.

Siemens has installed and commissioned the world’s first 8DAB 24, the groundbreaking blue GIS medium-voltage system, in the Alpine town of Davos. The switchgear system, which uses Clean Air as insulating gas instead of sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), is deployed in the Dorf substation in Davos, securing reliable power supply for up to 40,000 people. The installation of this 24 kV circuit-breaker switchgear is an important step towards a climate-friendly and smart power distribution in Davos. 
In addition, the blue GIS switchgear is equipped with smart sensors and standardized interfaces for Electrification X. Part of Siemens Xcelerator, Electrification X is a comprehensive IoT suite that provides solutions to challenges faced by public and private power grid operators. It improves energy efficiency and enables a seamless digital and sustainable transformation.