DC Switchgear Market Size, Share, Growth & Industry Analysis, By Deployment (Fixed Mounting, Plug-In,), By Voltage (Up to 750 V, 750 V to 1,800 V, 1,800 V to 3,000 V, Above 10 kV), By Application (Railways, Power Generation, Others) and Regional Analysis, 2023-2030

DC Switchgear Market Size

The global DC Switchgear Market size was valued at USD 11.78 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach USD 18.69 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 6.08% from 2023 to 2030. In the scope of work, the report includes products offered by companies such as General Electric, Siemens, Powell Industries., Eaton, Hitachi, Ltd., Toshiba Infrastructure Systems & Solutions Corporation, Schneider Electric, Sécheron, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, ABB, BRUSH and Others.

The rising demand for secure and reliable power supply across various industries is propelling the market growth. Furthermore, the increasing deployment of DC switchgear in rail transportation activities is expected to fuel market growth in the coming years. Additionally, the aging power infrastructure in leading countries is driving the demand for improved quality DC switchgear which would contribute to overall market growth in the future.

However, the market faces a few challenges, including the risk of arc formation during switching operations, limitations in vacuum circuit breakers for breaking high DC voltages, and the need for improved protection and fault management. Furthermore, the increasing complexity of utility environments poses challenges for the DC switchgear market.

Analyst’s Review

DC switchgear is a vital component in modern DC power systems and plays a critical role in ensuring the safe and reliable operation of electrical equipment. The use of DC switchgear is becoming more prevalent in various applications, including renewable energy systems, electric vehicles, and light rail and transit systems. Another trend is the replacement of aging infrastructure in developed countries along with the up-gradation of existing substations due to increasing power demand, driving the growth of the market.

Market Definition

DC switchgear is a type of electric power equipment that is used to protect, control, and isolate electrical equipment in DC (direct current) electric power systems. DC switchgear is commonly used in applications such as light rail and transit systems. It plays an important role in managing all critical operating conditions and providing safety for electrical equipment in DC systems. The design incorporates protective measures to safeguard the DC system, including the integration of high-speed breakers for the power feeder, rectifier, and other equipment, in conjunction with shielding to ensure the safe operation of the railway line. DC switchgear is offered by many manufacturers and can be found in a variety of capacities and ratings.

DC switchgear offers several advantages such as improved efficiency, smaller size and weight, reduced power losses, and safe operation of electrical equipment. The growing demand for DC power, along with the integration of renewable power generation and the replacement of aging infrastructure in North America, is driving the growth of the DC switchgear market.

DC switchgear typically includes a combination of devices such as disconnect switches, circuit breakers, fuses, and protective relays that are used to control and protect electrical equipment in DC power systems. The equipment is designed to manage different system conditions and provide safety, reliability, and efficiency to the electrical equipment.

DC Switchgear Market Dynamics

The need for electrification in rural areas is driving the development of DC switchgear solutions that can provide a reliable and cost-effective source of power. The growth of the renewable energy sector has further led to an increased demand for DC switchgear in these areas. While challenges such as the risk of arc formation during switching operations and limitations in vacuum circuit breakers for breaking high DC voltages remain, the development of innovative DC switchgear solutions is underway to overcome these challenges.

Governments in developing countries are investing in the electrification of rural regions, creating opportunities for growth in the DC switchgear market. The use of DC switchgear for electrification purposes in rural areas has the potential to improve the quality of life for many people by providing access to reliable and sustainable power. It is expected that the demand for these solutions will continue to grow in the future as more areas seek to implement sustainable energy solutions.

The adoption of HVDC (high voltage direct current) technologies is driving the growth of the DC switchgear market. HVDC systems are becoming increasingly popular for power transmission over long distances due to their lower transmission losses compared to traditional AC (alternating current) systems. Moreover, HVDC systems allow greater flexibility in power flow control and have lower electromagnetic interference. HVDC systems require DC switchgear to control, protect, and isolate the DC circuits.

Therefore, the growth in the adoption of HVDC technologies is driving the demand for advanced DC switchgear solutions. Overall, the market for HVDC technologies, including DC switchgear, is expected to grow in the future with the increasing demand for sustainable energy solutions and the need for a reliable and secure power supply.

Segmentation Analysis

The global DC switchgear market is segmented based on deployment, voltage, application, and geography.

By Deployment

Based on the deployment, the market is classified into fixed mounting, plug-in, and withdrawable units. The fixed mounting segment held the largest market share of 52.52% in 2022. The market growth is attributed due to being majorly used in applications where the circuit configuration is well established and is not expected to change frequently. DC switchgear with fixed mounting can also be more compact than other types, making them ideal for use in locations with limited space.

Some examples include disconnectors, switch-disconnectors, earthing switches, and circuit breakers. The global market offers a range of products with different fixed mounting configurations and capacities to meet various application requirements.

By Voltage

Based on the voltage, the market is divided into Up to 750 V, 750 V to 1,800 V, 1,800 V to 3,000 V, 3,000 V to 10 kV, and Above 10 kV. The Up to 750 V segment achieved the largest market share of 28.19% in 2022. It is commonly used in a variety of applications, such as electric vehicles, solar photovoltaic systems, and battery storage systems.

Apart from these factors, it plays a critical role in managing the flow of power and protecting against overcharging or discharging. This type of switchgear offers several benefits, including easy installation and maintenance, high breaking capacity, good protection performance, and strong dynamic stability. It is found in medium to large-sized commercial or industrial facilities as well as electric utility transmission and distribution systems.

For instance, in EV charging stations, DC switchgear rated at 750V is commonly used to control power conversion and distribution. Similarly, in solar PV systems, DC switchgear is necessary to manage the flow of power from the solar panels to the inverter. In battery storage systems, DC switchgear is used to protect the battery from overcharging or discharging. Overall, DC switchgear with rated voltage up to 750V plays an important role in the safe and efficient operation of these types of electrical systems.

By Application

Based on application, the DC switchgear market is categorized into railways, power generation, marine, battery storage, solar farms, EV charging infrastructure, and others. The railways held the largest market share at 27.49% in 2022. A multitude of advantages for railway power supply systems is likely to propel the market. Its integration with metal-enclosed switchgear and traction power supply solutions for air-insulated and gas-insulated railway switchgear ensures safe, reliable, and efficient power distribution for railway operations.

This type of switchgear is also beneficial for railway systems as it offers high breaking capacity, dynamic stability to short circuit currents, and efficient power transmission over long distances. In addition, DC switchgear for railways is modular and flexible in design, making it an optimal solution for modern railway systems.

DC Switchgear Market Regional Analysis

Based on regional analysis, the global market is classified into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, MEA, and Latin America.

The Asia Pacific DC Switchgear Market share stood around 35.14% in 2022 in the global market, with a valuation of USD 4.14 billion. DC switchgear has been gaining increasing importance in the region, particularly in the railway sector. The Indian government has been investing heavily in the development and expansion of energy infrastructure to improve the efficiency and reliability of railway systems.

• For instance, in February 2023, Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), an organization under the Ministry of Railways, recently selected Hitachi Energy India's advanced DC switchgear for the electrification of railway systems in India. LS Electric India is another reputable manufacturer of AC/DC switchgear in the Indian market. Despite the growing demand, testing facilities for switchgear components in India are still sparse.

Competitive Landscape

The global market study report will provide valuable insight with an emphasis on the fragmented nature of the global market. Prominent players are focusing on several key business strategies such as partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, product innovations, and joint ventures to expand their product portfolio and increase their respective market shares across different regions. Expansion & investments involve a range of strategic initiatives including investments in R&D activities, new manufacturing facilities, and supply chain optimization.

List of Key Companies in DC Switchgear Market

• General Electric
• Siemens
• Powell Industries.
• Eaton
• Hitachi, Ltd.
• Toshiba Infrastructure Systems & Solutions Corporation
• Schneider Electric
• Sécheron
• Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
• ABB
• BRUSH

The global DC Switchgear Market is segmented as:

By Deployment

• Fixed Mounting
• Plug-In
• Withdrawable Units

By Voltage

• Up to 750 V
• 750 V to 1,800 V
• 1,800 V to 3,000 V
• 3,000 V to 10 kV
• Above 10 kV

By Application

• Railways
• Power Generation
• Marine
• Battery Storage
• Solar Farms
• EV Charging Infrastructure
• Others

By Region

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
  • Mexico
• Europe
  • France
  • UK
  • Spain
  • Germany
  • Italy
  • Russia
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Rest of Asia Pacific
• Middle East & Africa
  • GCC
  • North Africa
  • South Africa
  • Rest of the Middle East & Africa
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Argentina
  • Rest of Latin America