According to Stratistics MRC, the Global Air Insulated Switchgear Market is accounted for $67.3 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach $100.9 billion by 2030 growing at a CAGR of 7.0% during the forecast period. Air Insulated Switchgear (AIS) is a type of switchgear that uses ambient air as the primary insulation medium for electrical components. It consists of circuit breakers, disconnectors, busbars, and other protective devices housed in metal enclosures. AIS is commonly used in medium to high-voltage applications for power distribution, transmission substations, and industrial facilities. AIS is widely used in power plants, renewable energy projects, utilities, and large industrial complexes where space is not a constraint and environmental factors allow for air insulation without compromising performance.
According to the study published by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIS), in May 2022, solar and wind energy are expected to be the largest renewable energy source for US electricity generation.
Market Dynamics:
Driver:
Growing Electricity Demand & Grid Expansion
Rising power demand and grid expansion are major drivers of the (AIS) industry. Utilities are modernizing and growing transmission and distribution networks in response to the increase in worldwide power consumption brought on by urbanization, industrialization, and electrification. AIS is preferred in medium-to-high-voltage applications due to its affordability, dependability, and simplicity of maintenance. The need for AIS is also increased by growing smart grid development and renewable energy integration, which guarantee reliable power distribution and grid stability in growing energy infrastructures.
Restraint:
Higher Maintenance Costs
Higher maintenance costs are a major impediment to the air insulated switchgear (AIS) industry. These expenses, which include specialist personnel, part replacements, and routine inspections, may discourage businesses from implementing AIS, particularly in markets where costs are a concern. Furthermore, AIS is less cost-effective overall than alternatives like gas-insulated switchgear due to its high maintenance requirements, which restricts its widespread use in industries.
Opportunity:
Renewable Energy Integration
The growing integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, is driving demand for Air Insulated Switchgear (AIS) due to the need for reliable grid infrastructure. AIS support decentralized power generation and grid modernization, enhancing efficiency and stability. Increased investments in renewable projects and smart grids further boost AIS adoption. Additionally, sustainability concerns and regulatory support for clean energy transition accelerate market growth, making AIS a crucial component in renewable energy expansion.
Threat:
Exposure to Environmental Conditions
Extreme environmental factors, such dust, excessive humidity, and corrosive substances, can have a detrimental effect on the lifespan and functionality of Air Insulated Switchgear (AIS). Equipment deterioration, decreased efficiency, and increased maintenance expenses might result from these circumstances. The need for extra precautions rises in areas with severe weather, which could impede market expansion by increasing operating costs and lowering the general dependability of AIS systems.
Covid-19 Impact:
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the Air Insulated Switchgear (AIS) market in the Asia-Pacific region, causing delays in manufacturing, supply chain disruptions, and project postponements. However, the demand for AIS in critical infrastructure and power distribution remained stable. Post-pandemic recovery, coupled with government stimulus plans and increased investments in renewable energy, has led to resurgence in market growth, with a focus on modernizing electrical grids.
The circuit breakers segment is expected to be the largest during the forecast period
The circuit breakers segment is expected to account for the largest market share during the forecast period because circuit breakers are an essential part that ensures system stability by shielding electrical networks from overloads and failures. The need for sophisticated AIS circuit breakers is fueled by rising investments in power infrastructure, the integration of renewable energy, and industrial expansion. Furthermore, by increasing sustainability and efficiency, technical developments such vacuum and SF₆-free breakers are driving market expansion.
The power generation segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period
Over the forecast period, the power generation segment is predicted to witness the highest growth rate due to increasing demand for reliable and cost-effective electrical distribution solutions. Growing investments in renewable energy projects, grid modernization expanding power infrastructure, and fuel AIS adoption. The need for high-voltage switchgear in power plants ensures operational safety and efficiency. Additionally, rising electricity demand and government initiatives for clean energy accelerate AIS deployment, reinforcing its role in enhancing transmission and distribution networks globally.
Region with largest share:
During the forecast period, the North America region is expected to hold the largest market share owing to rising electricity demand, grid modernization, and renewable energy integration. Utilities and industries prioritize AIS for cost-effectiveness, safety, and easy maintenance. Stricter environmental regulations favor AIS over SF6-based alternatives. Growth in smart grids, urbanization, and industrial expansion further boost demand. Additionally, investments in infrastructure development and power transmission networks strengthen market adoption, ensuring a reliable and sustainable electrical distribution system.
Region with highest CAGR:
Over the forecast period, the Asia Pacific region is anticipated to exhibit the highest CAGR due due to expanding infrastructure, fast urbanization, and the need for dependable power distribution networks. The market is growing as a result of government expenditures in smart grid technologies, growing industrialization, and the rise of renewable energy sources. AIS is a popular option for industrial and utility applications due to its minimal maintenance costs, safety features, and great reliability. The market's increasing demand is also influenced by strict safety regulations and the requirement for effective power management.
Key players in the market
Some of the key players in Air Insulated Switchgear Market include ABB Ltd., Alstom Power Transmission, Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited, Chint Electric Co., Ltd., Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals Ltd., Eaton Corporation, Efacec Engenharia e Sistemas S.A., General Electric (GE), Hitachi, Ltd., Honeywell International Inc., Hyundai Electric & Energy Systems Co., Kraft Powercon, LS Electric, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, Powergrid Corporation of India Ltd., S&C Electric Company, Schneider Electric, Toshiba Corporation, Siemens AG.
Key Developments:
In January 2025, ABB acquired Sensorfact BV, a fast-growing energy management company headquartered in Utrecht, Netherlands. The acquisition further expands ABB’s digital energy management offering.
In December 2024, ABB announced, it has signed an agreement to acquire the power electronics business of Gamesa Electric in Spain from Siemens Gamesa to strengthen ABB’s position in the growing market for high-powered renewable power conversion technology.
In December 2024, ABB announced, it has acquired Solutions Industry & Building (SIB). The acquisition of SIB strengthens ABB’s presence in rail, mining, OEM and specialty markets across Europe, the Middle East and North America. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Voltage Types Covered:
• Low Voltage (up to 1 kV)
• Medium Voltage (1 kV to 72.5 kV)
• High Voltage (above 72.5 kV)
Components Covered:
• Circuit Breakers
• Disconnectors
• Busbars
• Current Transformers
• Voltage Transformers
End Users Covered:
• Power Generation
• Utilities
• Industrial
• Commercial
• Residential
• Other End Users
Regions Covered:
• North America
US
Canada
Mexico
• Europe
Germany
UK
Italy
France
Spain
Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
Japan
China
India
Australia
New Zealand
South Korea
Rest of Asia Pacific
• South America
Argentina
Brazil
Chile
Rest of South America
• Middle East & Africa
Saudi Arabia
UAE
Qatar
South Africa
Rest of Middle East & Africa
What our report offers:
- Market share assessments for the regional and country-level segments
- Strategic recommendations for the new entrants
- Covers Market data for the years 2022, 2023, 2024, 2026, and 2030
- Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)
- Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations
- Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends
- Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments
- Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancements
Learn how to effectively navigate the market research process to help guide your organization on the journey to success.
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