Distribution Switchgear (Underground)

## Tender Opportunity: Underground Distribution Switchgear for Energy Queensland Limited Energy Queensland Limited (EQL), Australia's largest government-owned electricity company servicing customers via Energex and Ergon Energy Network, is issuing a Request for Tender (RFT) for **Distribution Switchgear (Underground)**. This procurement supports the ongoing needs across the Ergon and Energex distribution networks in Queensland, Australia. ⚙️ **Scope and Requirements:** EQL requires Secondary Distribution Switchgear rated at 11 kV, 22 kV, and 33 kV Ring Main Units (RMUs). These assets must support diverse applications, ranging from simple standalone switch/fuse setups to complex meshed network configurations, embedded generation connections, and zone substation interfaces, operating in both indoor and outdoor settings. 🌍 **Environmental Focus:** A critical requirement is the sourcing of equipment utilizing **proven alternative insulating mediums** alongside traditional SF6 insulated equipment. This dual approach is intended to facilitate a long-term transition away from high environmental impact SF6 gas, aligning with anticipated future Australian regulatory changes. 📅 **Timeline and Submission:** The formal RFT will be released via **SAP Ariba** in mid-February 2026, offering an eight-week response period. Key dates include a tender close on April 15, 2026, with an expected contract award by December 2026, and a contract commencement date of March 1, 2027. Suppliers must be registered on SAP Ariba to participate; new suppliers must email the Contact Officer for registration instructions. 🔑 **Keywords:** Distribution Switchgear, RMU, 11kV, 22kV, 33kV, SF6 alternative, Energex, Ergon Energy, SAP Ariba, Electrical Equipment, Queensland.