Hitachi Engineer Transforms Power Grids with Sustainable Retrofit Tech

A Hitachi engineer is advancing sustainable power grid solutions through retrofit technologies. Their work focuses on upgrading existing equipment to cut emissions, reduce waste, and improve efficiency. Over the past decade, their career has spanned research, global collaboration, and digital innovation within the company.

The engineer's path began with an electrical engineering degree, where they engaged in academic research and conferences. In 2013, they joined Hitachi, Ltd., contributing to gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) development at the Ibaraki site. Their role expanded after 2020, when Hitachi ABB Power Grids formed, accelerating the company's global reach and fostering international teamwork.

Now based at Hitachi City's Kokubu Office, they serve as a Product Engineer in the Service Business Unit. Their focus is on retrofit technologies—upgrading older equipment with modern components to boost performance, extend service life, and lower environmental impact. Recent projects include the EconiQ™ line, featuring SF6-free high-voltage switchgear, as well as transformer and relay upgrades under the Resilient Retrofit and MACH™ 2 programmes.

Between 2023 and 2026, these solutions were deployed worldwide. In the UK, SSE Renewables used them to connect wind farms. The USA's ComEd integrated them for grid resilience, while Germany's TenneT applied them to HVDC upgrades. Australia's Ausgrid also modernised substations with the same technology. The engineer highlights Hitachi's digital culture, where 2D drawings and paper plans have transitioned to 3D modelling, streamlining retrofit design.

The engineer's work aligns with broader sustainability goals, offering customers safer, more reliable, and cost-effective power solutions. By reducing CO₂ emissions, cutting resource use, and shortening project timelines, their retrofit innovations aim to deliver long-term efficiency and environmental benefits.