Advanced switchgear spark transformative grid electrification shift

According to Vivek Yadav, Executive Vice President of Havells, improved switchgear enables a dramatic shift in India’s electrical sector, aligning with smart grids and digitalisation.

How is advanced switchgear revolutionising the Indian electricity landscape in the era of smart grids and digitalisation?

As industrialisation and information technology continue to reshape the landscape, the switchgear market is undergoing a transformative shift alongside the expansion of critical sectors such as telecom, railways, airports, and ports. The rise of smart grids takes centre stage in this evolution, demanding specialised switchgear solutions that are compact, connected, reliable, eco-friendly, and swiftly deployable.

Responding to this imperative, Havells, a pioneering force in the switchgear domain, introduces the ST^DX range. This communication-ready lineup offers an intuitive one-touch interface, enabling seamless monitoring and control of electrical circuits—from MCCB to residential distribution boards. Equipped with real-time monitoring and proactive maintenance features, the advanced ST^DX range enhances uptime, competitiveness, and cost-effectiveness. With an emphasis on efficient energy management and safety, this range addresses contemporary requirements while advancing sustainability.

How are we exploring the game-changing technologies?

The terms “smart grid technology” and “infrastructure” relate to the application of cutting-edge communication and information technologies to improve the electrical grid’s efficiency, dependability, and sustainability. Energy is delivered where it is most required due to the use of digital technology like sensors, data analytics, and automation in smart grids, which monitor and control the flow of electricity.

Smart grid technology is improving the efficiency and reliability of electricity delivery by introducing several new features and capabilities that were not possible in traditional power grids. Some features include real-time monitoring and control and enabling electricity customers to become active participants.

What are the challenges and opportunities in adopting advanced switchgear technologies to enable intelligent energy management and enhance grid resilience in India?

India is poised to leverage advanced switchgear technologies, including digital solutions like Solid State Circuit Breakers (SSCB), to bolster intelligent energy management and grid resilience. Smart switchgear, particularly in the low-voltage market, is gaining traction for its role in optimising grids, enhancing quality, and curbing transmission losses. Manufacturers are investing in digital switchgear, harnessing data on current levels, temperature, cycles, and loads for improved reliability. Havells, a trailblazer in smart switchgear, introduces the ST^Dx range, featuring a user-friendly interface to monitor and control circuits from MCCB to final distribution boards. This integration seamlessly aligns with energy and building management systems, heralding a new era of utility systems.

Which safety aspects do they offer in identifying and curbing the breakdown frequency and faults?

Havells India has consistently advocated electrical safety, taking decisive steps to underscore its importance. The recent addition of Arc Fault Detection Devices (AFDD) to the Havells switchgear portfolio, specifically in the ST^Dx family, offers proactive protection against hazardous arc faults. These unintentional arcs between conductors can lead to insulation inflammation and even building fires. Causes range from trapped cables to rodent damage.

When paired with the ST^Dx range, these devices provide comprehensive protection, supporting two-way communication for diagnostics and proactive maintenance. Their intuitive design allows remote monitoring and control, ensuring safety and minimal downtime. These IoT-ready solutions offer real-time monitoring, predictive diagnostics, and precise electrical fault protection, aligning with Industry 4.0 standards.

Moreover, the smart switchgear seamlessly integrates with building management systems and utility networks, enabling power flow control and energy savings. Thanks to efficient monitoring and advanced protection, planned installations can lead to up to 30 percent lower operational costs than non-digital switchgear.