The future is modular

Digital switchgear tackles power loss and downtime. They are redefining energy management with modular, space-saving designs, real-time analytics, and AI-driven monitoring—cutting power losses, reducing downtime, and enabling smarter, more efficient infrastructure across sectors.

Monitoring and reducing losses and power theft is now a relatively easy task. This can be done through accurate energy tracking, sensor-based protection and early fault detection. Here, digital switchgear, such as ABB’s UniGear Digital and PrimeGear in the medium-voltage space and ArTu systems in the low-voltage space, plays an important role. The components are designed to meet the evolving needs of urban infrastructure and data centres while also curbing losses. Kiran Dutt has more to say; let us hear her.

How do compact, modular switchgear systems support energy efficiency in space-constrained urban environments?

Compact and modular low-voltage switchgear components and systems are crucial for enhancing energy efficiency and sustainability by minimising energy losses and optimising design and material use in space-limited urban and industrial environments. These systems offer greater flexibility, quick installation, and easy maintenance, which leads to a reduced carbon footprint. Smart panels equipped with sensors and other digital components provide real-time data and monitoring capabilities that optimise energy consumption and enhance system reliability. Such advancements align with sustainability goals by improving operational efficiency and reducing downtime. This makes them essential in promoting a more sustainable, resource-efficient future. With cities growing rapidly and shrinking space, utilising switchboards like ArTu, along with the latest intelligent breakers like Emax2 (the most compact in their category), has become a sustainable necessity.

How are AI and real-time analytics impacting switchgear performance and operational efficiency?

AI and real-time analytics are redefining switchgear performance and lifecycle management. They facilitate condition monitoring, predictive maintenance, enhanced fault detection and optimised operational efficiency. Sensors and monitoring systems provide real-time data for early fault detection and accurate health assessments, ensuring optimal operational conditions. Real-time assessments via on-premises or cloud solutions offer high uptime, rapid response times, focused maintenance, and lower lifecycle costs. Diagnostic data from AI and integrated systems enable trend analysis, facilitating proactive maintenance and reducing unplanned downtime. This leads to enhanced operational efficiency, cutting maintenance costs in industrial automation.

How are digitalisation and localised production shaping the future of switchgear market growth in India?

As industries rely on a solid electrical backbone to run their operations smoothly, the switchgear market in India is experiencing strong growth across various sectors. According to numerous market studies, the switchgear market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9 per cent, reaching USD 6.86 billion between 2024 and 2029. This growth is mainly driven by higher power consumption, rapid urbanisation and ongoing infrastructure capacity building.

A key trend is the shift towards smart and digital switchgear along with rising investments in renewable energy. Segments like renewables, semiconductors, green hydrogen, and infrastructure-heavy sectors such as metals, mining, and cement are experiencing double-digit growth. The market is also moving towards eco-friendly and sensor-based switchgear driven by the digitalisation of power systems.

As part of ABB’s strategy, we focus on producing within specific regions to serve local customers better. In India, we have consistently invested in enhancing local production capacities, adding new production lines to existing facilities, and building new ones.

How is ABB helping to overcome retrofit challenges in legacy low-voltage (LV) switchgear with modular digital solutions?

Automation is redefining the performance and safety benchmarks of low-voltage (LV) switchgear in both buildings and industrial facilities. By enabling real-time diagnostics, remote operations, and quicker responses to faults, automation enhances personnel safety and minimises unplanned downtime. Features such as motorised rack-in/out, breakers with IEC 61850 protocols and sensor-based monitoring play a critical role in predictive maintenance and fault prevention.

However, retrofitting digital technologies into legacy LV setups presents challenges. These include compatibility with older architectures, limited physical space for new components and the need for skilled personnel to operate digital systems effectively. ABB addresses these issues through modular retrofit kits and scalable digital upgrades that support phased adoption, allowing customers to digitise at their own pace without complete system replacement.

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