Vacuum Circuit Breaker Market Size - By Rated Current, By Installation, By Application, By End Use, Analysis, Share, & Forecast, 2025 - 2034

Vacuum Circuit Breaker Market Size

The global vacuum circuit breaker market size was valued at USD 5.9 billion in 2024 and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 7.9% from 2025 to 2034, owing to the ever-increasing demand for dependable and effective power allocation across the utilities and industrial and commercial domains. ABB released its new VD4-W vacuum circuit breaker series, catered to wind power applications up to 40.5kV, in January 2024.
 

The proliferation of renewable energy, smart grids, and digital substations are further driving the demand. Vacuum circuit breakers improve operational efficiency, enhance arc-extinguishing level, and reduces maintenance as compared to traditional circuit breakers. In December 2023, Siemens Energy formed a strategic alliance with the State Grid Corporation of China to provide vacuum circuit breakers for the company’s modernization of their electric grid.
 

Global electrification initiatives and investments in transmission and distribution infrastructure modernization continue to increase demand. The market now emphasizes features such as real-time monitoring, IoT connectivity, and predictive maintenance capabilities. Eaton Corporation for instance, introduced its new PowerXpert Release 2.0 digital platform for vacuum circuit breakers in November 2023, enhancing remote monitoring capabilities.
 

The Asia-Pacific region, especially India and China, steams ahead in vacuum circuit breaker market development propelled by rampant industrialization and infrastructural urban development. Schneider Electric, in anticipation of greater demand for vacuum circuit breakers in the Asia-Pacific region, expanded a manufacturing plant in India during the month of October 2023.
 

Nonetheless, the integration with the existing grid poses challenges with the initial investment costs. However, technological advancement, governmental subsidies towards energy-efficient projects, and the transition to smart power systems help in overcoming these hurdles. The implementation of stringent regulatory measures for the sustainability and maintenance of intelligent electric systems is aiding in the growth of the market. General Electric, with an aim to increase its foothold in the Americas, purchased a plant in Mexico in August 2023 for the manufacture of the vacuum circuit breaker’s production.
 

Vacuum Circuit Breaker Market Trends

• The vacuum circuit breaker industry growth is propelled in parallel by advances in technology, increased electrification, and the adoption of smart grids. The reliance on IoT systems for monitoring and predictive maintenance increases system dependability while minimizing outages.
   
• The implementation of grid enabling technologies and energy efficient measures has made smart vacuum circuit breakers a requisite for utility and industrial users globally. In March 2023, Siemens introduced its new 3AV8 series of vacuum circuit breakers, which incorporates the latest tools for digital monitoring and greater grid reliability.
   
• With the increase in environmental standards and sustainability guidelines, there is growing adoption of vacuum over SF6 gas-insulated circuit breakers due to lower environmental effects. To support global decarbonization targets, manufacturers are producing vacuum circuit breakers with lower carbon footprints. In January 2023, ABB announced the expansion of its eco-efficient vacuum circuit breakers production facility in China to accommodate the growing demand for sustainable power distribution.
   
• Alongside that, investments in renewable sources of energy along with urbanization and industrialization are expanding the Asia-Pacific vacuum circuit breaker market. The use of vacuum circuit breakers is on the rise due to the modernization of power infrastructure in China and India. In December 2022, the Indian Ministry of Power allocated USD 2.5 billion for the modernization of Indian power distribution infrastructure, including the use of new advanced circuit breakers.
   
• The adoption of installations for wind turbines and solar parks necessitates the development of new types of circuit breakers capable of handling variable power loads. The proliferation of energy storage systems has consequently made vacuum circuit breakers a necessity for safe and economical power distribution. In February of 2023, Eaton Corporation collaborated with NextEra Energy to provide vacuum circuit breakers for their new utility scale solar projects across the U.S.
   

Vacuum Circuit Breaker Market Analysis

• Based on the installation categories, the outdoor segment will cross over USD 7.5 billion by 2034.
   
• The indoor vacuum circuit breakers are gaining more traction in commercial and industrial settings due to the low maintenance requirements and environmentally friendly features. In March 2023, ABB introduced its new VD4-W series of indoor vacuum circuit breakers designed for wind power applications, which now offer better safety features and the possibility of plug-and-play connectivity to digital networks.
   
• The proliferation of smart buildings and digital substations further increases the demand for indoor vacuum circuit breakers since they enable remote supervision, automated predictive maintenance and other automation systems. In January 2023, Siemens Energy stated that it had phased out the harmful SF6 greenhouse gas from Germany’s digital basis substations by implementing their blue vacuum circuit breaker technology.
   
• Moreover, industries increasingly prefer indoor installations to minimize exposure to environmental elements and reduce equipment deterioration. Concurrently, outdoor vacuum circuit breakers maintain strong demand, particularly in power transmission and distribution (T&D) networks. The Indian Ministry of Power initiated a USD 2.5 billion project in December 2022 to upgrade its transmission infrastructure, including the installation of advanced vacuum circuit breakers.
   
• Expansion of outdoor installations is influenced by grid modernization, rural electrification and renewable energy developmental activities. These breakers are designed to function amidst unfavorable conditions and, at the same time, ensure dependable power supply which makes them critical components for substations and utility-scale renewable power plants. In February 2023, Eaton Corporation was awarded a contract to deliver outdoor vacuum circuit breakers for the largest solar farm in Australia.
   
• Furthermore, the development of environmentally resistant materials and smart grid interfacing technology has further enhanced the performance and lifespan of outdoor vacuum circuitry breakers. Further, utility firms focus on network resilience, which suggests a steady market for outdoor vacuum circuit breakers. In April 2023, Schneider Electric partnered with China’s State Grid to design new IoT-based high performance vacuum circuit breakers for smart grid technologies.
   

• The vacuum circuit breaker market is witnessing notable developments in both power distribution and power transmission activities. The power distribution segment holds a substantial share of over 87% in 2024 and is anticipated to grow substantially in the coming years owing to the soaring electricity demand.
   
• Furthermore, these breakers are used in medium voltage switchgear that supply power to industries, commercial buildings and residential estates. The development of smart grids and digital substations enhances the use of vacuum circuit breakers with remote monitoring and predictive maintenance features. In the smart grid sector, ABB earmarked an investment of USD 150 million in October 2023 for the expansion of its vacuum circuit breaker production plant in China.
   
• Government and utility investments in grid modernization projects support market growth in this segment. The efficient arc-extinguishing capabilities, reduced maintenance needs, and environmental advantages make vacuum circuit breakers suitable for power distribution applications. The Indian Ministry of Power allocated USD 2.5 billion in September 2023 for grid modernization projects, including the deployment of advanced vacuum circuit breakers.
   
• However, in power transmission, investments in high-voltage infrastructure and renewable energy integration expand the vacuum circuit breaker market. Vacuum circuit breakers in substations improve grid stability and reduce power losses. The development of HVDC (High Voltage Direct Current) transmission and smart power networks increases demand. Eaton Corporation partnered with State Grid Corporation of China in July 2023 to supply vacuum circuit breakers for their HVDC transmission project.
   
• The replacement of aging transmission infrastructure with modern systems positions vacuum circuit breakers as essential components for improving reliability, operational efficiency, and sustainability in high-voltage power transmission networks. The European Union approved a EUR 3 billion funding package in December 2023 for upgrading transmission infrastructure, with vacuum circuit breakers being a key component of the modernization plan.
   

• As of 2024, North America accounted for more than 25% share of the vacuum circuit breaker market, which is expected to increase further by 2034. The U.S. market experienced a significant growth in 2022, 2023 and 2024 and was valued at USD 0.9 billion, USD 1 billion and USD 1.1 billion respectively.
   
• The U.S. market is also influenced by the transition to SF6-free solutions. The growth of industrial facilities, data centers, and electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure creates additional demand for reliable medium-voltage power distribution equipment. In January 2023, Siemens launched its new blue portfolio of SF6-free medium voltage switchgear, including vacuum circuit breakers, for the U.S. market.
   
• The modernization of grids, boosted renewable energy, and tougher environmental regulations are the factors driving the vacuum circuit breaker market in Europe. The energy transition within the European Union aimed towards carbon neutrality alongside the banning of SF6 gas-based circuit breakers is driving the need for eco-vacuum circuit breakers.
   
• Additionally, the smart grid digital technology adoption, as well as electrification of the transport and other industrial sectors, is on the rise. Germany continues to lead the market, owing to its investments towards renewables integration and substation automation driven by strong energy transition policies. Siemens has been working towards replacing SF6 gas on electrical equipment. In March 2023, Siemens sponsored the EU SF6 prohibition by using vacuum switching technology with clean air insulation to SF6 GIS construction.
   
• The advancement of urban areas, industrialization and a massive focus on electric infrastructure investment is directing the growth of the Asia Pacific vacuum circuit breaker market. In the region, China takes the lead in upgrading the existing power grid, installing renewable energy facilities, and deploying smart substations. The government-sponsored programs enhancing grid dependability as well as rural electrification are increasing the need for vacuum circuit breakers.
   
• Moreover, the growth of India and Japan’s manufacturing sectors as well as the increasing power demand are significant factors for the region’s expansion. In January 2023, China’s State Grid Corporation declared its plans to invest USD 70 billion into power grid infrastructure, which includes the installation of advanced vacuum circuit breakers.
   
• The Middle East & Africa’s developed nations such as the United Arab Emirates and South Africa have been active participants in the shift towards renewable energy and smart grid initiative. Countries such as Saudi Arabia are investing heavily on energy diversification by undertaking large scale renewable energy projects along with the efficient implementation of smart grids.
   
• Government powered electrification campaigns and the need for dependable energy supply in industrial and populated regions is driving the demand for vacuum circuit breakers. In December 2022, Saudi Electricity Company signed a memorandum of understanding with ABB to supply vacuum circuit breakers for its grid modernization program.
   

Vacuum Circuit Breaker Market Share

The top 7 companies operating in vacuum circuit breaker industry include ABB, Eaton, General Electric, Siemens Energy, Schneider Electric, Mitsubishi Electric, and Toshiba. These companies have a strong presence in the market because of their advanced technologies, global marketing schemes, and persistent developments in the circuit breaker device.
 

These firms aim at improving the efficiency, reliability, and safety of power distribution for industrial, commercial, and utility applications. Their activities in smart grid technologies, digital monitoring, and sustainability significantly improves their competitive position in the vacuum circuit breaker market.
 

ABB remains the market leader in the vacuum circuit breakers because of its diverse products, broad market coverage, and technological innovation.  In March 2023, the company added a new series of VD4-CS vacuum circuit breakers which now allows the use of these circuit breakers in medium voltage systems with higher reliability and safety. The company’s competency in medium and high voltage switchgear systems provides dependable and efficient vacuum circuit brakers for sectors including utilities, industries, and commercial.
 

Moreover, the company's focus on digital transformation, smart grid integration, and sustainability focuses on the growing demand for modernized power distribution systems. The company is known for its supply chain network, collaborations in the industry, and continuous investment in research which have helped sustain its position of market leader on vacuum circuit breakers.
 

Vacuum Circuit Breaker Market Companies

The key companies operating in the industry include:

• ABB
• Eaton
• General Electric
• HD HYUNDAI
• Kirloskar Electric
• LS ELECTRIC
• Mitsubishi Electric
• Powell Industries
• Schneider Electric
• Siemens Energy
• Toshiba
• WEG

• Eaton provides medium-voltage power distribution via its vertical integration of vacuum circuit breaker product line. Additionally, the company enables enhanced safety and reliability by incorporating digital monitoring and smart grid functionalities. Its global business reaches the industrial and commercial and utility markets. In 2023, Eaton launched PowerXpert Release 2.0, its new platform with enhanced features for vacuum circuit breakers monitoring.
   
• General Electric (GE) produces vacuum circuit breakers for industrial and utility purposes. The company adds automation and smart grid features for operational efficiency. GE's market competitiveness is sustained through innovation and development as well as a well-established international distribution system. Recently, GE has worked with Power Grid Corporation to provide vacuum circuit breakers for their grid modernization projects.
   
• Siemens Energy develops vacuum circuit breakers with integrated digital functions for industrial, commercial, and power utility sectors. The company has strong electrical infrastructure capabilities which aid its product development and market position in power transmission and distribution systems. Siemens Energy launched its new 8DJH 36 vacuum circuit breaker series for better grid reliability.
   
• Schneider Electric designs and produces vacuum circuit breakers with telemetry and automation systems. Its products are designed for energy management and provide system security. It has a worldwide market and is present in industrial control which strengthens its market position. Schneider Electric has made an announcement regarding the partnership with Microsoft for developing new digital solutions for microwave circuit breakers.
   
• Mitsubishi Electric makes vacuum circuit breakers for industrial and power utility applications. The company specializes in integrating automation and monitoring to enhance productivity. Mitsubishi Electric added to AE-V series the latest AE-V version of vacuum circuit breaker.
   
• Toshiba employs smart grid capable of vacuum circuit breakers. The company products are applicable in industrial and utility domains due to its background in electrical power systems and world-wide business network. Toshiba has recently introduced its VG-33, a new series of medium voltage vacuum circuit breakers.
   

Vacuum Circuit Breaker Industry News

• In September 2023, HD Hyundai Electric began the construction of a smart factory in North Chungcheong’s Cheongju City, in a bid to augment its foothold in the distribution equipment industry. The new facility is expected to commence operations in October 2025, featuring automation of production processes, AI powered logistics management, and sophisticated supply chain automation. By the year 2030, the firm wishes to extend its current circuit breaker output to 13 million units.
   
• In August 2024, Siemens Energy and Mitsubishi Electric entered into a contract for the development of Direct Current (DC) Switching Stations and the specification requirements of DC Circuit breakers. This collaboration seeks to develop Multi-terminal High Voltage Direct Current systems that increase the effective use of large-scale renewable energy resources. The partnership aims to expedite the application and deployment of DC Circuit Breaker systems which, in turn, will help in achieving the goals of global decarbonization.
   
• In February 2024, GE T&D India Ltd has secured orders worth USD 42.5 million from the Power Grid Corporation of India for grid modernization projects. The contracts focus on upgrading India’s power transmission infrastructure, enhancing grid efficiency and reliability. GE will supply advanced solutions to support the country’s evolving energy needs and sustainability goals.
   
• In October 2023, ABB launched an arc furnace circuit breaker aimed at increasing the effectiveness of industrial applications while simultaneously curbing maintenance costs. The breaker increases safety and reliability as well as the availability of the equipment and the life of the components by controlling high electrical stress. By controlling high electrical stress, the new design together with other features enable effective power distribution performance in steel and metal industries.
   

This vacuum circuit breaker market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecast in terms of “USD Million & ‘000 Units” from 2021 to 2034, for the following segments:

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Market, By Rated Current

• 500 A
• 500 to 1,500 A
• 1,500 to 2,500 A
• 2,500 to 4,500 A
• > 4,500 A

Market, By Installation

• Indoor
• Outdoor

Market, By Application

• Power distribution
• Power transmission

Market, By End Use

• Residential
• Commercial
• Industrial
• Utility

The above information has been provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
  • Mexico 
• Europe
  • France
  • Germany
  • Italy
  • UK
  • Russia
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • Australia
• Middle East & Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE
  • Qatar
  • Kuwait
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Argentina