Solid-state CBs safeguarding grids from renewable energy fluctuations

IoT-enabled sensors continuously collect and transmit data on temperature, voltage fluctuations, current transmission, and other key parameters, enabling real-time visibility into electrical system health.

With the Indian government focusing on integrating renewable energy into the grids, switchgear technology has more opportunities for R&D advancement. Let us know more from Piyush Garg.

What switchgear advancements ensure safe, efficient renewable energy integration into grids while handling power intermittency?

With the Indian government focusing on renewable energy in the grids, the switchgear technology has more opportunities for R&D for advancement. From IoT Integration, communicable switchgear solutions, and compact designs to sensor integration, connectivity, fault detection, and predictive maintenance, today’s switchgear systems have it all. Another advancement in hybrid switchgear, combining gas and vacuum insulation, reduces environmental impact by lowering SF6 gas use while enhancing system reliability and efficiency. Also, adopting solid-state CBs enables ultra-fast response time, which is crucial for protecting the grid from sudden fluctuations in renewable energy output. Together, these advancements ensure that modern switchgear can handle the dynamic, intermittent nature of renewable energy sources, enhancing grid stability and safety while supporting a transition to cleaner power.

How does your switchgear contribute to grid resilience and reliability, particularly in managing the complexities of a smart grid environment?

As an authorised Channel Partner for Schneider Electric, we have first-handedly observed some game-changing results by SE switchgear for our customers. By integrating digital technologies like advanced sensors and IoT connectivity, Schneider’s switchgear enables real-time monitoring and data analytics, allowing grid operators to make informed decisions and proactively manage potential issues. This capability is critical for managing the complexities of a smart grid, where diverse energy sources and variable loads create dynamic operational conditions. The EcoStruxure-ready switchgears are energy efficient and ready for asset management. Key features are predictive maintenance and data-driven insights to detect and address faults before they escalate, reducing downtime and increasing equipment life. Being a Green Premium product with reduced SF6 usage, it aligns with sustainability goals while enhancing reliability.

How do IoT and AI in switchgear improve predictive maintenance, real-time monitoring, and operational efficiency?

Integrating IoT and AI within switchgear can enhance predictive maintenance and real-time monitoring capabilities, proving pivotal for the operational efficiency of large-scale infrastructure projects. IoT-enabled sensors continuously collect and transmit data on temperature, voltage fluctuations, current transmission and other key parameters, enabling real-time visibility of the electrical system health. AI algorithms can analyse this data to detect irregularities, predict potential faults, and suggest maintenance actions before issues that could lead to downtime. This reduces the need for routine inspections, minimises unexpected failures, and optimises the maintenance schedule, saving time and operational costs. These efficiencies in data centres or industrial facilities translate to fewer interruptions, extended equipment lifespan, and reduced maintenance budgets. Thus, it increases reliability and safety for critical infrastructure, where downtime can be costly and disruptive.

What challenges impede switchgear standardisation across regions and voltages, and how can government-private collaboration address them?

While optimising grid operations, challenges like differing regulatory requirements, safety codes, and voltage classifications across countries can make implementing a one-size-fits-all approach to switchgear design and deployment difficult. This variation challenges manufacturers to ensure compliance across multiple geographies, adding complexity and cost to production. Additionally, varying maturity levels across infrastructures and environmental conditions require distinct equipment features to suit dynamic demands, further complicating standardisation. Government needs to collaborate with the private sector to address these issues. They can work with industry leaders to establish harmonised standards that accommodate local requirements while fostering interoperability. Such joint partnerships can fund research and initiate training for adaptable switchgear technologies that meet diverse needs, reducing manufacturing and compliance costs.