Market Outlook:

The anticipated global DC solid-state circuit breaker market size is poised to reach USD 1,438.88 Million by 2022, with a projected escalation to USD 2,746.64 Million by 2030, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.45% during the forecast period. 

A specialized tool called a DC Solid State Circuit Breaker (DC SSCB) is used in Direct Current (DC) electrical systems to isolate and interrupt defects, or short circuits. DC SSCBs use semiconductors and electronic controllers to interrupt current more quickly and precisely than standard mechanical circuit breakers. In contrast to mechanical breakers, which require milliseconds to interrupt a fault, DC SSCBs can do this in microseconds. Rapid reaction reduces equipment damage and safeguards vital components. When conducting current, they provide extremely low resistance, which means that during typical operation, very little energy is lost. In contrast to mechanical breakers that produce sparks when they are interrupted, DC SSCBs are silent and do not provide a risk of arc flash risks. Compared to mechanical components, semiconductors have a longer operational life, which makes them a more dependable and long-lasting choice for circuit protection. Circuit breaker conditions can be remotely monitored and controlled through the integration of advanced DC SSCBs with control systems. They are appropriate for a variety of applications as they can be made to handle a broad range of DC voltages and currents. Overall, DC solid-state circuit breakers are a better option for safeguarding DC electrical systems than conventional mechanical breakers. They are an excellent resource for many applications due to their quick operation, great efficiency, and long lifespan, especially in the data center, electric car, and renewable energy sectors.

Market Dynamics:

Drivers:

The growth of the data centers drives the growth of the DC solid-state circuit breaker market. Dependable power protection in data centers is essential due to the constantly growing need for data processing and storage. DC SSCBs are perfect for protecting delicate data center equipment due to their quicker response times and silent operation. Unlike mechanical breakers, which require milliseconds to interrupt faults, DC SSCBs use electronic controllers and semiconductors. In the event of a malfunction, this quick reaction reduces harm to delicate data center equipment. DC SSCBs function silently, in contrast to mechanical breakers that produce sparks when they operate. This is important as noise can damage sensitive equipment and make the working environment less pleasant in data centers. Arc flash risks, which can seriously harm data centers and raise safety issues, are avoided when there is no arcing during fault interruption.

Restraints:

The lack of technical expertise may hinder the growth of the DC solid-state circuit breaker market. Technicians with specific training and familiarity with semiconductor technology are often needed for the installation and maintenance of DC SSCBs. For certain users, who might not have the internal knowledge, this could be difficult. DC SSCBs' switching and control operations are powered by semiconductor technology. The functions and unique qualities of these parts must be well understood by technicians. DC SSCB installation must be done correctly to guarantee both their best functionality and safety. This could entail setting up communication protocols, choosing compatible control connections, and working out the proper sizes. Compared to mechanical breakers, diagnosing and troubleshooting DC SSCBs involves a better understanding of the underlying circuitry. Technicians must be knowledgeable about the possible failure modes unique to control systems and semiconductors.

Opportunity: 

The increasing development of cost-effective solutions creates a lucrative opportunity for the growth of the market. The cost of DC SSCBs has decreased due to technological developments and economies of scale, increasing their competitiveness against conventional circuit breakers and broadening their market appeal. Modern semiconductors can withstand larger voltages and currents with less power loss, which could lower the DC SSCBs' total component cost. DC SSCBs' size and complexity can go down as semiconductor components get smaller, which lowers manufacturing costs and material consumption. When several functions are combined onto a single chip, fewer components are needed, which simplifies production and reduces expenses.

Challenge: 

When compared to more traditional mechanical breakers, DC SSCBs are a relatively recent technology. For their adoption to be more widespread, it is essential to educate prospective users about their benefits and to raise awareness of their advantages. For many years, mechanical circuit breakers have been the norm in the business. Due to their recent technological development, DC SSCBs might not have become well-known to many potential customers, nor are they completely aware of their advantages over conventional breakers.

Key Players:

• Schneider Electric

• Mitsubishi Electric

• ABB

• Fuji Electric

• Alstom

• Sun King Tech

• Rockwell Automation

• Toshiba

• Sécheron Hasler

• Eaton

• Others

Recent Developments:

• In June 2019, Fuji Electric Co. Ltd. acquired Consul Neowatt Power Solutions, a Chennai-based leading power backup manufacturer for Rs.720 crore). This is the first-ever acquisition of the $ 8-million Fuji Electric in India, which has a $ 1-million UPS & inverter industry.

• In June 2019, Fuji Electric Co., Ltd. (“FE”), headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, led by President Michihiro Kitazawa, is pleased to announce that, to expand its power electronics systems business in India, it has agreed with Peepul Capital Fund III LLC and the individual shareholders to acquire the entire shares of Consul Neowatt Power Solutions Private Limited (CNPS), a major power electronics manufacturer in the country. 

• In August 2023, Sécheron launched a new product of DC circuit breaker. The NEW metallic casing for DC circuit breakers UR10 and UR15, rated at 1,800 or 900 volts DC. In addition to providing protection, the new product is intended to reduce installation and maintenance expenses and time, and it may even incorporate extra features within the DC circuit breaker. When compared to conventional polyester enclosures, the NEW metallic enclosure's unparalleled adaptability is one of its main advantages. The metallic enclosure enhances integration to a higher level, whereas the polyester enclosures can only hold DC circuit breakers. It offers an all-in-one solution for vehicle management and safety by integrating not only the DC circuit breaker but also voltage and current sensors with class 0,5 R or less, in addition to other functions.

• In February 2023, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation acquired Scibreak AB which is a Swedish-based company that develops direct current circuit breakers (DCCBs). Through the close acquisition of the development of DCCB technologies for high-voltage direct current (HVDC) systems, the two companies hope to boost the competitiveness of their combined business and help the growing global deployment of renewable energy. The primary goal of these acquisitions is to add renewable energy sources, including wind power, which are becoming more prevalent globally to attain carbon neutrality. HVDC is utilized for long-distance transmission between offshore and onshore load centers, especially in offshore wind power generation, as it offers lower power losses and costs than AC transmission. 

Segment Insights:

The global DC solid-state circuit breaker market is segmented by various factors offering insights into specific areas. By application, equipment protection is the dominating one. Equipment Protection emphasizes equipment defense as DC SSCBs are excellent at preventing short circuits, or faults. In DC power systems the delicate electronic equipment gets harmed. Equipment protection is perfect for a variety of applications where equipment uptime and dependability are crucial due to their quick reaction times and silent operation. 

Regional Insights: 

North America accounted for the largest market share of 36.85% in 2022, with a market value of USD 568.91 Million, and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.80% during the forecast period. Europe was the second-largest market in 2022, valued at USD 470.61 Million in 2022; it is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.97%. However, Asia Pacific is projected to grow at the highest CAGR of 8.40%. The demand for DC solid-state circuit breakers in North America is being driven by several converging factors, reflecting the region's evolving energy landscape and technological advancements. Firstly, the rapid growth of renewable energy integration into the power grid is a primary driver. North America has seen a substantial increase in renewable energy capacity, driven by declining costs, government incentives, and environmental concerns. DC solid-state circuit breakers play a critical role in managing the unique characteristics of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power, facilitating efficient and reliable power distribution. These circuit breakers enable grid operators to effectively manage variable generation, smooth power fluctuations, and enhance grid stability. The electrification of transportation, particularly the surge in electric vehicle (EV) adoption, is fueling demand for DC solid-state circuit breakers. With governments and consumers increasingly prioritizing decarbonization and energy efficiency, EVs have become a prominent solution for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation sector. DC solid-state circuit breakers are essential components in EV charging infrastructure, ensuring safe and efficient power distribution during charging operations. As EV adoption continues to rise and charging infrastructure expands across North America, the demand for DC solid-state circuit breakers is expected to grow proportionately. 

Segmentation:

By Type

• High Voltage Circuit Breaker
• Medium Voltage Circuit Breaker 
• Low Voltage Circuit Breaker

By Application

• Industrial System

• Equipment Protection

• DC Power Transmission Project

By Region

North America

• USA

• Canada

• Mexico

Europe

• France

• UK

• Spain

• Germany

• Italy

• Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

• China

• Japan

• India

• South Korea

• Rest of Asia Pacific

Middle East & Africa

• GCC

• South Africa

• Rest of the Middle East & Africa

South America

• Brazil

• Argentina

• Rest of South America