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Exports grow steadily Smart low-voltage appliances will become market-driven
As the first and second generations of smart electrical products gradually phase out of the mainstream market due to performance limitations, the next wave of intelligent products is set to dominate the industry. In this transition period, the low-voltage electrical sector will continue to invest in fundamental smart technologies, despite current technical constraints. This shift reflects a growing demand for more advanced, efficient, and reliable solutions.
Low-voltage electrical appliances are essential components that can manually or automatically switch circuits on or off based on external signals. They play a critical role in controlling, protecting, monitoring, and adjusting both electrical and non-electrical systems. Over the past decade, the low-voltage electrical industry has experienced significant growth. From 2001 to 2010, it was estimated that approximately 21GW of new capacity was added annually. This demand required around 480,000 low-voltage frame circuit breakers and 4.82 million molded case circuit breakers each year. Additionally, government policies promoting the export of electromechanical products have contributed to a steady rise in overseas sales.
However, according to industry reports, China’s low-end low-voltage electrical products currently dominate the domestic market. While some high-end domestic products can compete with foreign counterparts, most still lag behind in terms of quality and performance. The older generations of low-voltage devices suffer from outdated technology and low profitability, while third-generation models fail to meet modern demands. Therefore, developing a new generation of intelligent low-voltage electrical appliances has become an urgent priority.
The next few years will be a crucial time for smart grid development. As smart grids, power distribution systems, and control equipment evolve, they will create a golden opportunity for the industry. However, during this process, State Grid and design firms often favor foreign brands, and domestic monopolies also play a major role in manufacturing low-voltage devices. Since the power grid relies heavily on various electrical components, intelligence at the appliance level is essential. The future direction of the industry lies in intelligent low-voltage electrical systems, which require better integration and comprehensive solutions.
To develop the next generation of products, three key factors must be considered: market demand, technological trends (including industry standardization), and system integration trends. Aligning new product projects with these aspects ensures a strategic and effective approach.
Currently, intelligent low-voltage electrical appliances focus on functions such as complete protection and control, measurement of electrical parameters, fault detection, self-diagnosis, system monitoring, and energy management. However, further research is needed to enhance the foundation of smart technologies.
Key areas of research include:
1. Defining the necessary intelligent functions for different types of low-voltage appliances within distribution and control systems, and how to implement them.
2. Developing standards for intelligent low-voltage electrical devices and creating testing equipment and methods for their functionality.
3. Studying integration technologies for intelligent low-voltage devices, ensuring coordination between multiple functions without overlap or conflict.
4. Enhancing the reliability of intelligent low-voltage electrical systems, including electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) technologies.
With the emergence of new technologies, the next generation of intelligent low-voltage electrical appliances—characterized by high performance, intelligence, strong breaking capacity, communication capabilities, miniaturization, modularity, and energy efficiency—will become the dominant market offerings. As a result, their market share is expected to grow significantly in the coming years.