Q1. Could you start by giving us a brief overview of your professional background, particularly focusing on your expertise in the industry?

31 years in the field of strategic business development, marketing, sales, & P&L Management of Power Transmission & Distribution; HV, MV & LV Switchboards/Switchgear.

Q2. How are utility-scale renewable energy projects (solar, wind, hybrid) influencing demand for smart MV switchgear across transmission and distribution networks? 

The future is renewable energy only, as most countries have started their journey towards achieving a Carbon zero emission strategy. The same is seen in the transmission and distribution networks as well. 

Q3. Which companies are leading in smart switchgear innovation, and how are they differentiating themselves?

The leading companies are:

• Siemens
• ABB
• Schneider 

There is not much differentiation; the objective is the same.

Q4. Are there local manufacturing hubs for MV switchgear components in emerging markets, and how are OEMs addressing localization mandates?

Yes, there are local manufacturing hubs for every major OEM. Even then, it is difficult to cover the world, and they are also adopting alternative go-to-market strategies.

Q5. Which component sub-markets present the most attractive opportunities amid shortages?

Vacuum Interrupters, as the number of OEMs is limited around the world.

Q6. How are prolonged supply chain disruptions (especially transformer and relay shortages) affecting switchgear delivery schedules and pricing in 2025–2026?

Switchgear is always towards the end of a turnkey project, and OEMs have learned to live with it with proper planning and forecasting. There is not much dependence on other products. Relays are sometimes a bottleneck, but the major OEMs now have their own range of numerical relays.

Q7. If you were an investor looking at companies within the space, what critical question would you pose to their senior management?

Capacity expansion, local country presence for 24x7 service, and storage warehouses in strategic locations.