China’s rapid expansion of its electric power grid has led to a concerning increase in the release of sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) gas, a greenhouse gas 24,300 times more potent than carbon dioxide (CO2) in creating the greenhouse effect. This alarming trend was revealed in a recent study conducted by researchers at the MIT Joint Program on the Science and Policy of Global Change, Fudan University, Peking University, University of Bristol, and Meteorological Observation Center of China Meteorological Administration.

The study highlighted that SF6, primarily used in high-voltage electrical switchgear in electric power grids, has seen a significant surge in atmospheric concentrations due to the escalating global demand for electric power. The report attributed a substantial portion of the increased SF6 emissions to China, which nearly doubled its emissions from 2.6 gigagrams (Gg) per year in 2011 to 5.1 Gg per year in 2021, accounting for 57 percent of the global total SF6 emissions.

The longevity of SF6 in the atmosphere, lasting for over a thousand years, coupled with its adverse impact 24,300 times greater than CO2, raises significant concerns. This surge in SF6 emissions poses a threat to global efforts in combating climate change, as it significantly impacts the planet’s radiative budget.

The study emphasized the urgency for immediate action to reduce and ultimately eliminate SF6 emissions, stressing the imperative nature of global cooperation in addressing this pressing environmental issue. With the increasing push for consumers to transition from gas-powered vehicles to electric vehicles, which heavily relies on a robust power grid, mitigating SF6 emissions becomes even more critical.