The Future of Medium Voltage Switchgear

The electricity industry is conservative. Among the reasons for this is the fact that the lifetime of medium voltage and high voltage switchgear is around 30 years. Transmission system operators (TSOs) and distribution network operators (DNOs) need stability. Maintenance and repair of such long-life devices needs to be ensured. And of course, work is easier for service crews if there is no change in technology. However, some drastic evolutions appear about every 20 years… The development of smart grids will result in the inclusion of more intelligence in MV equipment. This course will specifically address medium voltage technologies that exist in the switchgear industry, as well as summarize the evolution of past technologies and outline the future path of the medium voltage sector.
• Describe the evolution of various switchgear and switchboard technologies • Discuss the evolution of single line diagrams • Explain the developmental path for future switchgear for MV consumer sites and switching substations