Global DC Switchgear Market Size By Deployment (Fixed Mounting, Plug-In, Withdrawable Units), 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), Application (Railways, Power Generation, Marine, Battery Storage, Solar Farms, EV Charging Infrastructure, Others), and Region - Market Share, Trend Analysis, Competitive Intelligence, Historical Data, and Forecast 2023 - 2030

Market Perspective

The global DC Switchgear Market was worth around USD 11.79 billion in 2022 and is anticipated to grow to around USD 18.69 billion by 2030, depicting a CAGR of around 6.1% between 2023 and 2030.

DC switchgear is an integral part of DC power systems, providing protective, control, and isolation devices for electrical equipment. The demand for these switchgear is being driven by various factors. One of the main drivers for market growth is the increasing need for reliable power supply in sectors such as renewable energy, electric vehicles, and transit systems. This demand is fueling innovation in DC switchgear technology. Additionally, the replacement of aging infrastructure in developed regions and the adoption of HVDC technology for efficient long-distance power transmission are further boosting market expansion. These trends indicate a promising future, with a projected increase in electrification efforts in rural areas, particularly in emerging economies. As governments prioritize sustainable energy solutions, the DC switchgear market is expected to expand, leading to advancements that ensure secure, efficient, and adaptable power distribution in a rapidly changing global landscape.

Key Insights

• Based on deployment type, the fixed mounting segment held the dominating position with a market value of USD 6.18 billion in 2022
• Based on voltage, the up-to-750 V segment acquired the largest market share of 28.19% in 2022
• Based on application, the EV charging infrastructure segment is expected to grow with the highest CAGR of 9.61% through the forecast period
• On the basis of region, Asia-Pacific accounted for the largest market share of 35.14% in 2022

Rising Adoption of HVDC Technology Fuels DC Switchgear Market Growth

The growing use of High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) technology is a strong driver behind the expansion of the DC switchgear market. HVDC technology has become popular due to its higher efficiency and decreased transmission losses over long distances, compared to traditional AC systems. This technology provides better control of power flow and reduces electromagnetic interference, making it crucial for modern power transmission needs. As HVDC systems require specialized DC switchgear to ensure control, protection, and isolation of DC circuits, their increasing deployment fuels the demand for advanced DC switchgear solutions. This trend not only aligns with the demand for sustainable energy solutions but also highlights the vital role that DC switchgear plays in enabling dependable and secure power supply in the evolving energy landscape.

Addressing Arc Formation During Switching Operations Becoming A Key Challenge for the Market

One major obstacle faced by the DC switchgear market is the risk of arc formation during switching operations. When circuits are opened or closed, there is a possibility of an electric arc being created between the contacts. These arcs can generate excessive heat, and mechanical stress and potentially damage equipment, creating safety hazards for personnel and disrupting system reliability. The characteristics of DC arcs are different from those in AC systems, requiring specialized solutions to mitigate the risks. It is crucial to innovate in arc suppression technologies and designs to ensure safe and efficient operation.

Recent Development

November 2022: To expand in the Asia-Pacific market, LS ELECTRIC built a new facility in the Vietnamese province of Bac Ninh that will serve as a production hub for switchboards, circuit breakers, and other common electric power equipment.

Segmentation Analysis

Based on deployment, the market is segmented into fixed mounting, plug-in, and withdrawable units. The fixed mounting segment captured a substantial market share of 52.52% in 2022. This dominance can be attributed to its widespread use in applications that have stable circuit configurations and don't require frequent changes. Fixed mounting options, such as disconnectors, switch-disconnectors, earthing switches, and circuit breakers, offer compact designs that are suitable for installations with limited space. This segment's dominance underscores its ability to effectively and reliably handle diverse operational conditions in DC power systems.

Based on voltage, the market is segmented 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 secured the largest market share of 28.19% in 2022. This segment's prominence is highlighted by its widespread application in various sectors, including electric vehicles, solar photovoltaic systems, and battery storage setups. Switchgear rated up to 750 V offers attributes like easy installation, high breaking capacity, and robust protection performance, making it crucial in managing power flow and protecting equipment.

Based on application, the market is classified into railways, power generation, marine, battery storage, solar farms, EV charging infrastructure, and others. The railways segment has captured a significant revenue share of 27.49% in 2022 and emerged as the dominant segment in the DC switchgear market. This market position highlights the crucial role of DC switchgear in powering safe, reliable, and efficient railway operations. DC switchgear offers benefits such as high breaking capacity and a modular design, enabling optimal power distribution and management across railway systems. These factors solidify its position in the market as an essential component for railway infrastructure.

Asia Pacific's Vigorous Railway Electrification Drives Market Growth

The Asia Pacific region is set to command a significant market share of 35.14% in the DC switchgear sector, mainly due to robust efforts in railway electrification. With the Indian government making substantial investments to enhance rail system efficiency and reliability, the adoption of advanced DC switchgear solutions in the country has become crucial. A notable example of this trend is Rail Vikas Nigam Limited's selection of cutting-edge DC switchgear for Indian railway electrification. This rail infrastructure development aligns with the region's broader energy initiatives. As electrification gains momentum across the Asian railway landscape, the demand for efficient, secure, and adaptable power distribution through DC switchgear plays a vital role in consolidating the region's dominant position in the market.

The use of advanced DC switchgear solutions in railway networks ensures optimal power distribution, leading to improved operational efficiency and safety. As the region embraces electrification, the role of DC switchgear becomes increasingly important. This technology not only enables efficient power delivery but also protects against disruptions and enhances system reliability. By adopting advanced DC switchgear solutions, the Asia-Pacific region is set to transform its railway landscape, ushering in an era of enhanced efficiency, sustainability, and connectivity.

Competitive Landscape

The global DC switchgear market is fragmented with key players such as General Electric Company, ABB, Siemens, Powell Industries, BRUSH, Eaton, Hitachi Group, Toshiba Infrastructure Systems & Solutions Corporation, Schneider Electric, Sécheron, and Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, among others. Companies employ a variety of strategic measures, such as acquisitions, mergers, partnerships, product introductions, and collaborations, to expand their business globally and enhance their competitive position.

The global DC Switchgear Market is segmented as follows:

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