United Kingdom Low Voltage Protection and Control Market Overview, 2030

The Low Voltage Protection and Control (LVPC) sector in the United Kingdom has progressed considerably, influenced by the need for dependable power distribution and the upholding of strict safety standards across various sectors, including industrial, commercial, and public domains. In the past, the industry faced difficulties due to outdated electrical systems, limited capacity, and operational interruptions that led to increased maintenance expenses. These weaknesses were particularly evident in energy-heavy industries and vital facilities, which sped up the implementation of sophisticated protection systems aimed at correcting faults, preventing harm to equipment, and ensuring the safety of workers. In the last ten years, innovations in technology have reshaped the LVPC arena, with producers launching smart circuit breakers, surge guards, and switchgear fitted with sensors connected to the internet for ongoing monitoring and assessments. The connection with digital systems like cloud-based energy management and building automation has made it possible to forecast maintenance needs, detect faults remotely, and optimize load management based on data insights. This move towards digital technology is in line with the UK's overarching goals for intelligent manufacturing, energy efficiency, and reducing carbon emissions, as outlined in the national industrial strategy and commitments for net-zero emissions. Regulatory factors also play a crucial role, with adherence to BS EN and IEC standards, as well as compliance with the IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671), guaranteeing product safety, compatibility, and quality of installations. Various industrial sectors, ranging from automotive production to food manufacturing, are increasingly employing LVPC solutions that work seamlessly with automation systems to improve uptime and operational stability. At the same time, both commercial and public sectors are putting resources into contemporary LVPC infrastructure to aid the electrification of transport, the incorporation of renewable energy sources, and the growth of data centers.

According to the research report, ""UK Low Voltage Protection and Control Market Overview, 2030,"" published by Bonafide Research, the UK Low Voltage Protection and Control market was valued at more than USD 570 Million in 2024. The Low Voltage Protection and Control (LVPC) market in the United Kingdom is experiencing consistent growth, propelled by the nation's continuous initiatives to upgrade its electrical systems and enhance the incorporation of renewable energy sources. Prominent companies like Schneider Electric UK and ABB UK lead the way, offering advanced circuit breakers, surge protective devices, switchgear, and smart monitoring systems that cater to the UK’s regulatory framework and operational requirements. Efforts to modernize, which include the refurbishment of outdated distribution systems and the establishment of smart substations, are resulting in considerable opportunities for LVPC solutions that bolster grid reliability, enhance power quality, and support real-time control and monitoring. The demand for advanced protection and switching equipment is increasing due to the integration of renewable energy like wind, solar, and distributed generation, as these tools must effectively handle bidirectional power flows, harmonics, and fluctuating generation patterns. Initiatives such as the partnership between ABB and UK Power Networks to improve renewable energy integration through digital substation protection and control highlight the sector’s commitment to innovation aligned with the UK's Net Zero 2050 goal. Adhering to BS EN standards, which align with European and international guidelines, ensures that LVPC products fulfill strict safety, performance, and interoperability criteria, while CE marking remains crucial for accessing the market in the context of the UK’s post-Brexit conformity regulations. These standards foster confidence among consumers and operators, mitigate operational risks, and support integration with both traditional and modern systems. Moreover, the market is reaping benefits from supportive policies, including innovation initiatives funded by Ofgem and government programs promoting energy efficiency and decarbonization.

In the Low Voltage Protection and Control (LVPC) sector of the UK by type is divided into Protection equipment, Switching Equipment and Monitoring devices. Monitoring Devices play a key role in the advancement of the country’s smart grid, with Ofgem managing the deployment and regulation of smart meters and related diagnostic tools. These devices are set up in residential, commercial, and industrial settings, delivering precise, real-time usage statistics, allowing remote meter readings, and aiding in advanced diagnostics for identifying faults and managing loads. They connect with the Data Communications Company (DCC) network, enabling secure information sharing among consumers, suppliers, and network operators, which supports energy efficiency initiatives and demand-side responses. Switching Equipment pertains to low- and medium-voltage (LV/MV) switchgear that is designed and approved to meet BS EN standards, ensuring the safe management, isolation, and transfer of electrical loads during normal operations and fault situations. This group includes load break switches, isolators, and reclosers utilized throughout residential, commercial, and industrial networks. Adherence to BS EN 60947, BS EN 61439, and similar standards ensures efficiency, safety, and compatibility while designs frequently include features for mitigating arc-flashes, compact designs for city settings, and integration with automated systems. Protection Equipment involves fuses, circuit breakers, and protective relays that adhere to the IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671), which establish the national standard for electrical installation safety. These tools are designed to sense and interrupt overcurrents, short circuits, and earth faults, safeguarding against equipment damage, fire risks, and potential injuries. The requirements of BS 7671’s 18th Edition like compulsory surge protection in certain cases have led to broader implementation of coordinated protection systems, especially in areas with sensitive electronics or high levels of renewable energy use.

In the Low Voltage Protection and Control (LVPC) sector of the UK by end-use is divided into Residential, Commercial and Industrial. Commercial uses refer to electrical frameworks put in place at businesses like offices, stores, restaurants, medical facilities, and schools. These systems must adhere to the IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671). This set of standards outlines how electrical systems should be designed, installed, checked, and tested to promote safety, reliability, and energy efficiency, including protections such as residual current devices (RCD), surge protectors, and arc fault detection when necessary. Industrial uses include LVPC systems in factories, processing plants, and similar production areas, which are regulated by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Following the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, and associated HSE guidelines ensures that electrical systems are crafted, handled, and serviced in a way that prevents accidents, safeguards workers, and reduces downtime. In these environments, LVPC devices like robust switchgear, motor control centers, and protective relays need to endure high fault currents, regular use, and potentially tough environmental conditions while enabling safe isolation and lockout/tagout procedures. Residential uses concentrate on home safety devices, including circuit breakers, RCDs, surge protective devices, and home energy monitoring systems, all installed following Building Regulations Part P. Part P sets forth legal requirements for electrical safety in homes, ensuring that all fixed electrical setups are designed and implemented to avoid fire and electric shock risks. It requires that specific types of work like installing new circuits, replacing consumer units, and fitting systems in high-risk areas must be performed by a registered qualified person or inspected and approved by building control.

Considered in this report
• Historic Year: 2019
• Base year: 2024
• Estimated year: 2025
• Forecast year: 2030

Aspects covered in this report
• Low Voltage Protection and Control Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Type
• Protection equipment
• Switching Equipment
• Monitoring devices

By End-use
• Residential
• Commercial
• Industrial Show more