The circuit breaker is a device used to protect an electrical circuit from damage caused by overcurrent/overload or short circuits. There has been an exponentially growing need for power demand worldwide. This increased demand is mostly from the developing economies of the world. For example, in April 2024, the World Bank Group and the African Development Bank Group announced the partnership of an ambitious project to provide at least 300 million people in Africa with electricity access by 2030. The World Bank Group would work to connect 250 million people to electricity through renewable energy systems while the African Development Bank Group would support an additional 50 million people. This growing demand for energy-efficient infrastructure and renewable energy sources to optimize power distribution has led to the rising application of circuit breakers as increased awareness about electricity safety and regulation.
Several leading players play a vital role in shaping the future of circuit breakers market:
1. ABB
The ABB Group is one of the largest companies serving in the fields of electrification, renewable energy, process automation, and robotics. Electrification segment alone generated revenue of US$14.6 bn in 2023. The company has a legacy of miniature circuit breakers for 100-year with its inception in 1924. The company’s future is focused on energy efficiency, transparent, and sustainable practices. They intended to build a portfolio of compact, modular, and flexible designs to integrate renewable energy sources. In November 2023, ABB provided switchgear and circuit breaker solutions in a new mining plant in West Africa. The solution included 13 of ABB’s VD4 vacuum circuit breakers, which had the potential to minimize maintenance, increase safety, and provide protection. ABB technology offered compact technology without SF6 insulating gas in the switchgear or the circuit breaker.
2. Eaton Corporation
Eaton Corporation is the leading manufacturer of circuit breakers in the industry and is continuously the landscape of the market. On March 29, 2021, Eaton acquired a 50 percent stake in HuanYu High Tech (HuanYu Group) which manufactures low-voltage circuit breakers and contactors in China. Further, in July 2022, Eaton acquired a 50 percent stake in Jiangsu Huineng Electric Co., Ltd’s circuit breaker business, which manufactures and markets low-voltage circuit breakers in China and had revenues of $35 million in 2021. These acquisitions gave them significant advantage to expand for growing needs of high-growth market segments such as renewable energy and grid modernization over the Chinese market and throughout the Asia-Pacific region.
Besides, in October 2024, Eaton announced a collaboration with Lunar Energy to simplify the installation and functionality of home energy storage and solar systems. The integration of Eaton’s new AbleEdgeTM smart breakers with the Lunar System would make it easier for installers to deploy solar and storage, manage loads, optimize costs, and extend the life of the solar battery system.
Additionally, Eaton launched a collaboration with Tesla at RE+ 24 streamlining new and retrofit home energy storage deployments in September 2024. This collaboration would make it easier for customers to integrate residential solar, energy storage systems. Tesla’s Powerwall would support Eaton’s new AbleEdgeTM smart breakers. This will make it easier to achieve intelligent load management functionality to optimize energy use and extend backup duration.
With all these developments the company is aligned with Eaton’s Home as a Grid strategy. The ‘Home as a Grid’ means homes can now act as energy hubs by producing their power to support flexibility and stability and manage energy consumption in an integrated way.
3. CG Power and Industrial Solutions Limited
CG Power and Industrial Solutions Limited is a leading player in power systems in India. They are the first Indian manufacturer to develop and supply Ultra High Voltage 765kV SF6 gas circuit breakers. They were implementing the three main strategies, i.e. expansion of capacity, enhancing exports, and accelerating technological advancements. Recently in FY2023, they launched vacuum interrupter railway trackside circuit breakers.
And initiated the product upgradation in EHV Switchgear by design, such as 420kV, 63kA Gas Circuit Breaker suitable for -40°C application, which resulted in executing an order from Ukraine and opened an opportunity for in many European countries. Further, degradation of 245kV, 50kV Gas Circuit Breaker for higher altitude applications. These developments and innovations put the company at the forefront in India and overseas markets of Burkina Faso, Cameron, Congo, Greece, Kenya, Paraguay, Philippines, UAE, Suriname, etc.
4. Salzer Electronics Limited
Salzer Electronics Limited has its major revenue share from the industrial switchgear which was 53.9% in Q1 FY24 and 51.8% in Q1 FY25. The company took pride itself to be the largest supplier of rotary and load break switches to Indian Railways. Further, the company is focused on its several research and development products, including receiving two patents for CAM-operated rotary switches & Motor protection Circuit breakers’ for 20 years which is ending in 2036. Moreover, the company has a unique design in India for load break switches and single-hole mounting switches.
5. Hitachi Energy Ltd.
Hitachi Energy Ltd. is a key innovating leader in the market for circuit breakers. Hitachi, Ltd. announced that it would supply five units of Hitachi Energy’s sulfur hexafluoride (SF6)-free EconiQ 300 kilovolt (kV) circuit breaker to Chubu Electric Power Grid. This was the first project in Japan where SF6-free circuit breakers would be installed at voltages of 275 kV and above. The SF6-free EconiQ circuit breaker reduces CO2-equivalent emissions from the insulating gas by 99.3 percent, this helps in achieving sustainable power grids in Japan and reducing emissions to zero by 2050.
Additionally, in August 2024, Hitachi Energy launched today a new technology to tackle emissions of sulfur hexafluoride (SF₆), 80 percent of which come from the power sector. Sulfur hexafluoride (SF₆) is used in switchgear, its is a critical component protecting power grids. But it is 24,300 times more climate-hostile than CO₂. To overcome this challenge, Hitachi Energy launched the world’s highest voltage SF₆-free switchgear – the EconiQTM 550 kV circuit breaker that can be used in gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) or dead tank breakers (DTB) and the EconiQ 420 kV Live Tank Breaker (LTA).
6. Toshiba
Toshiba has high standards for its products and manufacturing. This is the leading company in the market. Such as, their high-voltage vacuum circuit breakers are designed and manufactured by the latest IEC standards, IEC 60056, and IEC 2300, and for indoor switchgear purposes. These can be used at altitudes up to 1,000m. Further, HVK 5-15 kV vacuum circuit breakers are the smallest and the lightest of its kind. The 15 kV, 1200 A rated breaker weighs only 95 kg (210 lb.) which is much less than the most competitive vacuum circuit breakers, which can weigh up to 95 kg (210 lb.).
Besides, Toshiba agreed to team up with Meidensha Corporation. Both companies are jointly developing to accelerate the adoption of a new GIS with natural-origin gases. They combined the electrical insulating technologies of natural-origin gases with the advantages of vacuum circuit breakers achieving both size reductions and a high current interrupting capability. However, the development curve was steep. The development process for the new GIS included further size reductions and support for higher voltages.
7. Siemens AG
Siemens is following up on the renewable economy, with new electronic switching technology and digitalization to integrate into existing systems. Siemens and BASF announced collaboration on driving the circular economy in June 2024. Siemens would provide a circuit breaker which is the first electrical safety product to use plastic components where fossil raw materials have been replaced by biomethane derived from recycled biowaste. This material changeover in the SIRIUS 3RV2 circuit breaker production will reduce the emission of carbon dioxide equivalents by ~270 tons per year.
Additionally, Siemens introduced innovative circuit protection devices which is multifunctional, parametrizable, and sustainable in March 2024. This new product requires up to 80 percent less space in the distribution board, compared to conventional solutions. This is a space and energy savings compared to conventional solutions.
8. Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
Mitsubishi Electric Corporation announced it signed an agreement with Siemens Energy Global GmbH to co-develop Direct Current (DC) Switching Stations and DC Circuit Breaker requirement specifications in August 2024. The agreement aimed to realize Multi-terminal High Voltage DC (HVDC) systems to enable efficient operation of large-scale renewable energy resources. This would accelerate the global deployment of Multi-terminal HVDC systems.
Further, on February 2023, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation announced into entered into the acquisition of Scibreak AB, a Swedish-based company that develops direct current circuit breakers (DCCBs). The two companies aimed to strengthen the development and distribution of DCCB technologies for high-voltage direct current (HVDC) systems to support the increasing global deployment of renewable energy.
9. Fuji Electric
Fuji Electric offers different types of circuit breakers such as Moulded Case Circuit Breakers, Magnetic Contactors And Starters, Miniature Circuit Breakers, Power Monitoring Units, Air Circuit Breakers, etc. Their Moulded Case Circuit Breakers are intended for photovoltaic power generation. It is compatible with DC750V and 1000V and is ideal for the junction box and power conditioner. MCCB would lead the market demand for the photovoltaic renewable energy generation.
10. Schaltbau
Schaltbau is a major company specializing in DC power and providing products and solutions enabling electrification. In April 2024, Schaltbau announced the introduction of its Smart Circuit Breaker product line, a family of intelligent circuit breakers that cut off currents ten to a hundred times faster than conventional contactors, therefore better protecting all kinds of energy storage systems. It could simplify the integration of renewable energy sources, energy storage systems, and energy consumers into industrial microgrids.
Further, for its expansion in Europe, announced a sales distribution partnership with Heilind Electronics, a major global distributor specializing in electromechanical products in November 2024. This collaboration aimed to accelearte the sale of Schaltbau’s Eddicy products to customers across Europe.
Conclusion:
The companies are moving towards sustainable practices, such as the development of technologies to reduce or remove SF6 from the circuit breaker. Further, the companies are trying to make the circuit breaker for the application in the renewable energy power generations namely, photovoltaic, wind, etc. The digitalization and modernization of the circuit breaker are major factor driving innovations in the market.
Top Players Shaping the Power Rental Market: A Competitive Analysis
Thought ArticlesThe power rental market is witnessing growth due to diverse industries requiring reliable and continuous power supply to maintain consistent operations. Power rental is a feasible way for across the industries such as manufacturing and constructions among others require maintenance of power supply, temporarily shutdowns and emergency power requirement, the power rental are readily available options for these situations. For instance, the U.S. Census Bureau reported that the preliminary estimates of construction spending in the United States in December 2024 were $2,192.2 billion, representing an increase of 0.5 percent from the revised estimate of $2,180.3 billion in November 2024 and also up by 4.3 percent from the estimate for December 2023 which stood at $2,101.3 billion. This trend will be leading to boosting the increase of a competitive landscape globally where key market players are continuously developing and launching new product and innovations to expand and adhere to changing customer demands in the power rental market.
Increase in Construction Spending in the United States, in US$ Billion, in November 2024 and December 2024
Source: U.S. Census Bureau
Top companies in the power rental market
Let’s discuss each in detail.
Aggreko is the world leader in temporary power, temperature control, and compressed air rental solutions for construction, events, manufacturing, and utilities. The company supplies rental solutions for power generation, dehumidifiers, cooling and heating, battery storage, and industrial air compressors. Their mobile, modular hardware can be scaled to the size of demand while the company has specialists in their field that understand how to assist with unique aspirations.
Aggreko’s global network and brand reputation aid the company in being one of the market players. The company strategy focusses to provide flexible and cost-effective energy and power services as customers transition to less carbon-heavy forms of energy. Remote monitoring technologies are being used to optimize output, and they offer fuel management services to ensure timely deliveries along with investing in sustainable products, fuels, and services.
The company’s rental options provide range from generators, transformers, and load banks to temperature systems, among others. They also provide diesel generator rental and gas generator rental services. Gas generator set rentals provide 1375-kVA gas generators, are the most viable and low-emission solution. The generators are perfect for off-grid power or installing combined heat and power packages. They present significant reductions in nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and particulates compared to diesel emissions. Aggreko also provides gas generators capable of operating on a range of natural gases, meaning that clients will be able to maximize their own resources when deciding to hire a gas generator from Aggreko.
Caterpillar Inc. is regarded as a global leader in construction and mining equipment with a firm hold on power rental markets because it offers an extensive range of rental power solutions based on its know-how in engine technology and heavy machinery. Its brand, namely Cat and Perkins offer durable, versatile engines for many machines and provide a full line of innovative and reliable power solutions that serve industrial/construction, agriculture, and rental markets so that they can survive in harsh environments and meet user-defined specifications.
The company strategy engaging in supporting with customers in the energy transition by investing in new technologies and services, developing products that reduce emissions and improve operational efficiency, and working towards sustainability.
The company supplies a range of rental power equipment, such as mobile generators, that are easily transportable and installed. The portable solutions for remote jobs locations or temporary power needs are available in natural gas and diesel models.
Atlas Copco is a global industrial company providing quality products and services in compressed air, vacuum, power, and other industrial applications. Atlas Copco offers a full range of power rental solutions with 24/7 reliable power rental solutions for power generators, air compressors, nitrogen generation, dryers, dewatering pumps, and steam generators through Atlas Copco Specialty Equipment Rental.
With over 140 years of experience and working in more than 160 different sectors, Atlas Copco Rental provides rental sets of generators for all types of industrial applications. With professional equipment and on-site project management, efficient all-in-one approach, triple ISO certification, cost-effective custom rentals, and international 24/7 service.
The company is focused on providing efficient and sustainable solutions, with an increasing emphasis on hybrid and electric power options. Atlas Copco’s strength in innovation and service solidifies its standing in the market. Besides, the company also provides rental gensets, diesel generators, modular power stations, energy storage modules, and transformers. Modular power stations from the company are designed for optimum uptime and efficiency with low fuel consumption per kWh. They are compact, quiet, easily transportable and easy to install; plug and play connectivity allows for easy parallel connection of generators ensuring flexible and reliable power plant.
Cummins Inc. is a global power company designing, producing, and servicing engines, generators, and powertrain components, rental generators and all associated equipment. Cummins holds the position of a key player in power rental markets because of engine technology and the offering of reliable and efficient power solutions. Furthermore, Cummins enjoys a competitive advantage due to its strong global presence and customer service network.
The company offers tier 4 final certified rental generator sets throughout its North American scope for rental power solutions. The gensets, being US EPA Tier 4 Final Certified, are designed to be flexible, reliable, and rugged, found in rental generators like C12D6RE, C70D2RE, and C100D2RE. On the other hand, international rental power solutions launches a whole range of diesel-powered generators developed for flexibility, reliability, and cost-effectiveness in rental applications. The generators apply in diverse applications and rental fleet requirements including the models C40D2R, C65D2R, and C90D6RB.
United Rentals, the world’s largest equipment rental company, is well established in the power rental market across North America, with a wide-reaching integrated network comprising 1,520 locations in North America, 38 in Europe, 23 in Australia, and 19 in New Zealand. The company provides a diverse range of rental equipment for diverse industries, including construction, industrial, and power sector, their products including generators, transformers, and power distribution equipment, along with services like delivery, setup, and maintenance.
United Rentals offers a wide range of generators for rent, including portable gas and diesel models with varying outputs and fuel capacities to meet customers specific needs. Additionally, the company offers a wide range of heavy-duty transformers for rent, ranging from 15 kVA to 7,000 kVA, mounted on a skid frame for outdoor use.
Top 10 Emerging Beverages Set to Dominate the Market in the Coming Years
BlogTop 10 fastest-growing beverage types across the globe:
Each type of beverage is discussed in detail, below:
1. Carbonated Drinks
Carbonated beverages or carbonated drinks are a type of beverage, that contains carbonated infused in it. The carbonated drinks contain carbonated water, with flavors, sweeteners, preservatives, and color. There are various types of carbonated beverages available in the global market, which include soft drinks, sparkling water, and carbonated wines among others. The demand for carbonated beverages in the global market witnessed significant growth during the past few years. The British Soft Drinks Association, in its report, stated that in the United Kingdom, the total production of carbonated drinks in 2023 was recorded at 5,923 million liters, which witnessed a growth of 0.5% from 2022. The agency further stated that in 2021, the total production of carbonated drinks in the nation was recorded at 5,520 million liters, which surged to 5,894 million liters in 2022. In 2021, carbonated drinks witnessed a growth of 6.2%, which increased to 6.8% in 2022.
Carbonated Drinks Production in the UK, millions of Liters, 2021 to 2023
Source: British Soft Drinks Association
2. Juice
Fruit juice or juice is a type of beverage, which are made by extracting the liquid content of fruit and vegetable products. The juice offers multiple health benefits to the consumers it provides higher antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins. The juice products also offer multiple digestive benefits and help in promoting heart health. The increasing consumer preference towards organic and natural drinks products, which include low amounts of sugar and preservatives, witnessed significant growth. The British Soft Drinks Association, in its report, stated that the production of soft drinks in the nation witnessed a growth of 1.7% in 2022 and about 4.3% in 2023. The agency further stated that in 2021, the total production of fruit juice was recorded at 956 million liters, which surged to 973 million liters in 2022. In 2023, the total production of fruit juice in the UK was recorded at 1,014 million liters.
3. Vegan Milk
Vegan milk or plant milk is a form of milk drink, which is made using plant products as raw material. The vegan milks are extracted from water-based plants, which offer a rich taste and flavor. Plant milk is considered the best and most sustainable alternative to milk obtained from various types of animals. Plant milk beverages offer multiple benefits to the consumers, like it contains lower saturated fats, and does not contain any cholesterol. The plant milk also consists of various types of nutrition and vitamins, with no lactose and calories. The global plant milk drink market is expected to witness major growth with the increasing consumer preferences towards vegan food consumption habits.
4. Fermented Cider
Fermented cider is a type of alcoholic beverage, which is made by fermenting apples. Cider also offers multiple health benefits to the consumers, which include lowering the blood sugar content, whereas helping in managing weight. The cider also helps in reducing the risk of heart disease, and it also detoxifies the blood. Cider is commonly consumed in the UK and Ireland. With the increasing consumption of alcoholic beverages in the global market, the demand for fermented cider is expected to grow significantly across the globe.
5. Perry
Perry or pear cider is a fermented pear juice drink, which comes under the alcoholic beverages categories. Perry drink is a type of traditional alcoholic beverage, which is widely consumed in England, Wales, France, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Perry drinks witnessed an increase in global demand majorly to the increasing consumer preference towards natural, and unique drinks, that contain lower amounts of artificial sweeteners, and preservatives.
6. Beer
Beer is among the most common types of alcoholic beverages, which are consumed across almost every nation in the globe. Beer is made by fermenting grains, which gives it a unique taste and color. In the global market, various types of beer are available, which include lager, ale, pale ale, witbier, Strout, and pilsner among many others. Beer provides a wide range of health benefits, as it can help in supporting heart health, and aids in kidney stones. The introduction of craft beer, a type of beer which is typically produced in craft breweries, and contains new flavours, helps the global beer market achieve a significant boost.
7. Nut Wine
Nut wines are a form of wine, which is made using various types of nuts, like walnuts and cashew nuts. These type of wines are produced using maceration of organic and green nuts, which ensures rich aroma and fine taste to the beverage. Nut wine is also a form of traditional drink, which is made using different techniques and raw material across different parts of the globe. French Walnut Wine, which is also known as Vin de Noix, is among the most common, and most consumed types of nut wine across the globe. Similarly, in India, the organic cashew nut wine, or cashew apple wine is widely consumed and is expected to witness the rise in its demand in the global market.
8. Energy Drinks/Sports Drinks
A sports drink is a form of functional beverage, which commonly contains electrolytes. Sports drinks offer multiple benefits to consumers, as it helps in enhancing the physical performance of the individual, and helps in regaining the mineral lost in sweat. Sports drinks provide the muscles with a supply of water, energy, and electrolytes, which prevents the cramping of the muscles.
The sports or energy drinks category of beverages witnessed a major demand in the sports and activity sector. The demand for sports drinks witnessed significant growth during the past few years majorly with the introduction of new players in the market. The British Soft Drinks Association, in its report, stated that in the UK, the production of sports or energy drinks category witnessed a growth of about 6% in 2023, whereas a growth of 7.9% was recorded in 2022. The agency stated that in 2021, the total production of sports or energy drinks was recorded at 906 million liters, which surged to 978 million liters in 2022, and 1,037 million liters in 2023.
9. Sake
Sake is a Japanese alcoholic drink, which is made using rice. The Sake drinks consist of around 15% alcohol content and are a form of traditional Japanese drinks. The increasing tourism and introduction of foreign culture and food products are among the major factors that are expected to boost the demand for the sake in the global market, in the coming few years.
10. Fruit Flavoured Drinks
Fruit-flavoured drinks are a type of fruit juice, with a content of fruit juice less than 50% of the total drinks. These types of drinks are mixed with various types of flavors and spices, to create the unique flavor of fruit drinks. The fruit-flavored drinks witnessed a significant growth in global demand with the introduction of various small and regional-based companies, offering a traditional local taste to the global market. For instance, in India, Paper Boat, a beverage products manufacturer, offers a wide range of fruit-flavored drinks, like Swing Juicer, Aam Panna, Slurpy Mango, and Lush Lichee among others.
Top 10 Manufacturers Shaping the Future of Circuit Breakers
Thought ArticlesThe circuit breaker is a device used to protect an electrical circuit from damage caused by overcurrent/overload or short circuits. There has been an exponentially growing need for power demand worldwide. This increased demand is mostly from the developing economies of the world. For example, in April 2024, the World Bank Group and the African Development Bank Group announced the partnership of an ambitious project to provide at least 300 million people in Africa with electricity access by 2030. The World Bank Group would work to connect 250 million people to electricity through renewable energy systems while the African Development Bank Group would support an additional 50 million people. This growing demand for energy-efficient infrastructure and renewable energy sources to optimize power distribution has led to the rising application of circuit breakers as increased awareness about electricity safety and regulation.
Several leading players play a vital role in shaping the future of circuit breakers market:
1. ABB
The ABB Group is one of the largest companies serving in the fields of electrification, renewable energy, process automation, and robotics. Electrification segment alone generated revenue of US$14.6 bn in 2023. The company has a legacy of miniature circuit breakers for 100-year with its inception in 1924. The company’s future is focused on energy efficiency, transparent, and sustainable practices. They intended to build a portfolio of compact, modular, and flexible designs to integrate renewable energy sources. In November 2023, ABB provided switchgear and circuit breaker solutions in a new mining plant in West Africa. The solution included 13 of ABB’s VD4 vacuum circuit breakers, which had the potential to minimize maintenance, increase safety, and provide protection. ABB technology offered compact technology without SF6 insulating gas in the switchgear or the circuit breaker.
2. Eaton Corporation
Eaton Corporation is the leading manufacturer of circuit breakers in the industry and is continuously the landscape of the market. On March 29, 2021, Eaton acquired a 50 percent stake in HuanYu High Tech (HuanYu Group) which manufactures low-voltage circuit breakers and contactors in China. Further, in July 2022, Eaton acquired a 50 percent stake in Jiangsu Huineng Electric Co., Ltd’s circuit breaker business, which manufactures and markets low-voltage circuit breakers in China and had revenues of $35 million in 2021. These acquisitions gave them significant advantage to expand for growing needs of high-growth market segments such as renewable energy and grid modernization over the Chinese market and throughout the Asia-Pacific region.
Besides, in October 2024, Eaton announced a collaboration with Lunar Energy to simplify the installation and functionality of home energy storage and solar systems. The integration of Eaton’s new AbleEdgeTM smart breakers with the Lunar System would make it easier for installers to deploy solar and storage, manage loads, optimize costs, and extend the life of the solar battery system.
Additionally, Eaton launched a collaboration with Tesla at RE+ 24 streamlining new and retrofit home energy storage deployments in September 2024. This collaboration would make it easier for customers to integrate residential solar, energy storage systems. Tesla’s Powerwall would support Eaton’s new AbleEdgeTM smart breakers. This will make it easier to achieve intelligent load management functionality to optimize energy use and extend backup duration.
With all these developments the company is aligned with Eaton’s Home as a Grid strategy. The ‘Home as a Grid’ means homes can now act as energy hubs by producing their power to support flexibility and stability and manage energy consumption in an integrated way.
3. CG Power and Industrial Solutions Limited
CG Power and Industrial Solutions Limited is a leading player in power systems in India. They are the first Indian manufacturer to develop and supply Ultra High Voltage 765kV SF6 gas circuit breakers. They were implementing the three main strategies, i.e. expansion of capacity, enhancing exports, and accelerating technological advancements. Recently in FY2023, they launched vacuum interrupter railway trackside circuit breakers.
And initiated the product upgradation in EHV Switchgear by design, such as 420kV, 63kA Gas Circuit Breaker suitable for -40°C application, which resulted in executing an order from Ukraine and opened an opportunity for in many European countries. Further, degradation of 245kV, 50kV Gas Circuit Breaker for higher altitude applications. These developments and innovations put the company at the forefront in India and overseas markets of Burkina Faso, Cameron, Congo, Greece, Kenya, Paraguay, Philippines, UAE, Suriname, etc.
4. Salzer Electronics Limited
Salzer Electronics Limited has its major revenue share from the industrial switchgear which was 53.9% in Q1 FY24 and 51.8% in Q1 FY25. The company took pride itself to be the largest supplier of rotary and load break switches to Indian Railways. Further, the company is focused on its several research and development products, including receiving two patents for CAM-operated rotary switches & Motor protection Circuit breakers’ for 20 years which is ending in 2036. Moreover, the company has a unique design in India for load break switches and single-hole mounting switches.
5. Hitachi Energy Ltd.
Hitachi Energy Ltd. is a key innovating leader in the market for circuit breakers. Hitachi, Ltd. announced that it would supply five units of Hitachi Energy’s sulfur hexafluoride (SF6)-free EconiQ 300 kilovolt (kV) circuit breaker to Chubu Electric Power Grid. This was the first project in Japan where SF6-free circuit breakers would be installed at voltages of 275 kV and above. The SF6-free EconiQ circuit breaker reduces CO2-equivalent emissions from the insulating gas by 99.3 percent, this helps in achieving sustainable power grids in Japan and reducing emissions to zero by 2050.
Additionally, in August 2024, Hitachi Energy launched today a new technology to tackle emissions of sulfur hexafluoride (SF₆), 80 percent of which come from the power sector. Sulfur hexafluoride (SF₆) is used in switchgear, its is a critical component protecting power grids. But it is 24,300 times more climate-hostile than CO₂. To overcome this challenge, Hitachi Energy launched the world’s highest voltage SF₆-free switchgear – the EconiQTM 550 kV circuit breaker that can be used in gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) or dead tank breakers (DTB) and the EconiQ 420 kV Live Tank Breaker (LTA).
6. Toshiba
Toshiba has high standards for its products and manufacturing. This is the leading company in the market. Such as, their high-voltage vacuum circuit breakers are designed and manufactured by the latest IEC standards, IEC 60056, and IEC 2300, and for indoor switchgear purposes. These can be used at altitudes up to 1,000m. Further, HVK 5-15 kV vacuum circuit breakers are the smallest and the lightest of its kind. The 15 kV, 1200 A rated breaker weighs only 95 kg (210 lb.) which is much less than the most competitive vacuum circuit breakers, which can weigh up to 95 kg (210 lb.).
Besides, Toshiba agreed to team up with Meidensha Corporation. Both companies are jointly developing to accelerate the adoption of a new GIS with natural-origin gases. They combined the electrical insulating technologies of natural-origin gases with the advantages of vacuum circuit breakers achieving both size reductions and a high current interrupting capability. However, the development curve was steep. The development process for the new GIS included further size reductions and support for higher voltages.
7. Siemens AG
Siemens is following up on the renewable economy, with new electronic switching technology and digitalization to integrate into existing systems. Siemens and BASF announced collaboration on driving the circular economy in June 2024. Siemens would provide a circuit breaker which is the first electrical safety product to use plastic components where fossil raw materials have been replaced by biomethane derived from recycled biowaste. This material changeover in the SIRIUS 3RV2 circuit breaker production will reduce the emission of carbon dioxide equivalents by ~270 tons per year.
Additionally, Siemens introduced innovative circuit protection devices which is multifunctional, parametrizable, and sustainable in March 2024. This new product requires up to 80 percent less space in the distribution board, compared to conventional solutions. This is a space and energy savings compared to conventional solutions.
8. Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
Mitsubishi Electric Corporation announced it signed an agreement with Siemens Energy Global GmbH to co-develop Direct Current (DC) Switching Stations and DC Circuit Breaker requirement specifications in August 2024. The agreement aimed to realize Multi-terminal High Voltage DC (HVDC) systems to enable efficient operation of large-scale renewable energy resources. This would accelerate the global deployment of Multi-terminal HVDC systems.
Further, on February 2023, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation announced into entered into the acquisition of Scibreak AB, a Swedish-based company that develops direct current circuit breakers (DCCBs). The two companies aimed to strengthen the development and distribution of DCCB technologies for high-voltage direct current (HVDC) systems to support the increasing global deployment of renewable energy.
9. Fuji Electric
Fuji Electric offers different types of circuit breakers such as Moulded Case Circuit Breakers, Magnetic Contactors And Starters, Miniature Circuit Breakers, Power Monitoring Units, Air Circuit Breakers, etc. Their Moulded Case Circuit Breakers are intended for photovoltaic power generation. It is compatible with DC750V and 1000V and is ideal for the junction box and power conditioner. MCCB would lead the market demand for the photovoltaic renewable energy generation.
10. Schaltbau
Schaltbau is a major company specializing in DC power and providing products and solutions enabling electrification. In April 2024, Schaltbau announced the introduction of its Smart Circuit Breaker product line, a family of intelligent circuit breakers that cut off currents ten to a hundred times faster than conventional contactors, therefore better protecting all kinds of energy storage systems. It could simplify the integration of renewable energy sources, energy storage systems, and energy consumers into industrial microgrids.
Further, for its expansion in Europe, announced a sales distribution partnership with Heilind Electronics, a major global distributor specializing in electromechanical products in November 2024. This collaboration aimed to accelearte the sale of Schaltbau’s Eddicy products to customers across Europe.
Conclusion:
The companies are moving towards sustainable practices, such as the development of technologies to reduce or remove SF6 from the circuit breaker. Further, the companies are trying to make the circuit breaker for the application in the renewable energy power generations namely, photovoltaic, wind, etc. The digitalization and modernization of the circuit breaker are major factor driving innovations in the market.
The Impact of Changing Consumer Preferences on the Coffee Pods Industry
BlogThe single-use coffee container, commonly referred to as the coffee pod, is synonymous with the tea bag and prepares just a single coffee. The major attraction of it is its one-time use and throw nature for customers as it removes the additives and other flavors from their brewing process and thus easily cuts time. The lifestyles of general consumers are changing become preference trends toward ready-to-use innovative products, the real impact on awareness is from the health benefits of organic coffee consumption, and a tendency holds for rapid urbanization, which produces positive impacts on coffee pod demand. Other than the above positive attributes, embracing fair trade practices for farmers of coffee beans, and recreating a café experience at home, leads to increasing the consumer attraction to buy coffee pods.
According to numbers released up to October 2024, world coffee exports reached 11.13 million bags, up from 9.67 million reported in October 2023, according to International Coffee Organization (ICO) data. Thus, the growing trade of coffee worldwide is expected to generate a large portion of overall market growth related to coffee pods. The coffee pods are expected to witness significant developments since they are highly available and also observe wide applications in household, industrial, and brewed sectors.
Coffee pod brewing is quick and easy, eliminating a lot of time and guesswork using traditional methods, and pre-measured coffee grounds reduce the time needed in the morning for busy people, allowing them to access coffee very quickly between scheduled times. Urbanization is resulting in increased consumption of fast-moving products, such as beverages, among which coffee is one of the main brands. The busy lives of consumers present a need for convenience and speed therefore, it demands coffee pods.
The culture of coffee is not only getting rapidly popular in the urban areas but is serving innumerable cafés, and shops, serving different taste preferences, making this space see much growth in commercial sales. By all means, irrespective of the fact that the rate varies with which modernization changes in each country, it is globally estimated that by 2050, 1 in 7 persons will be living in an urban area, thus being formed by the historical urban share. Further, it expects to rise from 58 percent in 2025 to 68 percent in 2050.
Increase in Coffee Export in the World, in Million Bags, in October 2023 and October 2024
Source: International Coffee Organization (ICO)
Moreover, there is a rise in trend witnessing an increasing number of customers who would like to experience the flavor of superior coffee brewing at home, so the coffee pod manufacturers must come up with diversified blends and flavors that will also stimulate market growth. For example, in December 2024, NEXE’s BPI-certified compostable coffee pods containing three different SKUs were received from NEXE Innovations Inc. by EKOCUPS- a retailer on Amazon as a second shipment from the company. NEXE enters the U.S. market through this partnership with EKOCUPS committed to premium coffee products. The growth of compostable pods in the regular caffeine content coffee pods segment is likely driven by the increasing demand from consumers embracing sustainability, combined with a long-term trend towards the enjoyment of high-end sustainable coffees as these pods become more readily available.
New entrants in the market are expected to be a great part of coffee pod growth with unique flavor combinations, drawing potential consumers, and capturing shifting tastes with emerging taste preferences that all drive the growth of flavored coffee pod requirements in the coming years. Eggo’s entry into the market, in August 2024, launched Eggo Coffee flavors for all five different taste sensations, and this is considered the first-ever caffeine-infused offering of the brand known for waffles. Since it partnered with Two Rivers Coffee Company, Eggo has the possibility of creating combinations from the flavor of waffles and turning them into ultimate brews. This product line was made available in functional coffee pods compatible with Keurig brewers so that one can drink flavored coffee with their Eggo waffles or even coffee aficionados can consume power through busy days.
In addition, consumers’ tendency to buy goods directly through the Internet, which may bring more variety to coffee, is within the redeemed adoptions that will drastically shift the face of markets. The availability of coffee pods on the Internet makes it even more convenient for consumers. Moreover, e-commerce provides the consumer with various coffee pod options wherein prices can be compared without leaving the house for easy delivery, which would be appealing to the very busy lifestyle of consumers nowadays.
Alongside the prognostic correlation of that with an increase in e-commerce sales is a significant focus on the coffee pods in online sales channels. More so, it creates an affinity for their purchase patterns, which means, instead of them going for their traditional way of getting their coffee pods, they would prefer to shop for them online because of greater convenience, and this is particularly attractive to those whose time schedules are too tight to visit offline stores.
A report by the Census Bureau of the Department of Commerce states that in the third quarter of 2024, retail e-commerce sales in the United States increased by 2.6%, amounting to $300.1 billion, compared to the estimate of $1,849.9 billion in the previous quarter, without seasonal changes or price adjustments. The rising net sales value of retail e-commerce in the United States will build online distribution channels further into the coffee pods market base. The businesses leveraging these channels for their consumer preferences in targeting advertising and personalized offers would experience remarkable growth as their own coffee pod distribution channel.
Key Developments:
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Top Materials Used in 3D Printed Footwear and Their Market Impacts
Thought Articles3D printing has given immense possibilities in footwear engineering and manufacturing. It is enabling companies to create new shoe designs and address the growing demand for customization. The changing reality of today’s consumer landscape has provided opportunities for companies to create personalized experiences for the consumer in footwear design. Many footwear companies can now enable a new level of customization by the ability to create shoes specifically tailored to the wearer. Although the customers have a limited amount of customization with limited colors, mass-customized footwear is still in its early stages, the innovative technology and new development of new material applications footwear companies are beginning to develop strategies for shoe customization en masse.
Further, another key driver for the expansion of footwear 3D printing is digitization and automation of production. Companies are now optimizing production by automating the manufacturing process, making the production less labor-intensive, and more digitalization to streamline the production of certain shoe components. 3D printing requires the creation of a digital model and setting parameters, like printing speed and part orientation, on the build platform, using a specialized software application. The 3D printing software guides the printing process according to the digital model and pre-set parameters.
The requirement for lightweight shoes, cost reduction, and demand for unique and decorative colors and patterns have propelled the demand for different 3D Printed Footwear materials like Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU), Thermoplastic Rubber (TPR), new proprietary material called Rebound Resin, molded ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) foam, etc.
Several materials and their market impacts have been as below:
1. Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)
TPU and elastic polyurethane are the most commonly used materials in 3D-printed footwear. It offers several advantages over other materials like durability, lightweight, chemical & water resistance, and grip making it perfect for midsoles, outsoles, and even uppers in some cases. Recently, in November 2024, Nike teamed up with Zellerfeld to create the Air Max 1000. This new launch was made by TPU. The company used creatives and innovators with advanced digital tools to create Air Max 1. The flexibility of the material can be determined as a new slip-on design was created using the filament material extrusion process.
Polyurethane is the appropriate choice in production, as it is less expensive to produce and easier to work. Its durability also provides customers with longer-lasting, more cost-effective footwear. The major importers of polyurethanes in the world are the China and United States with import quantities of 143,094,000 Kg and 84,136,700 kg respectively. These two countries hold prominent positions in the development of 3D printing technologies and their deployments.
Polyurethanes (in Primary Forms) Imports, US and China, in Kg, 2023
Source: World Integrated Trade Solution (WITS)
2. Thermoplastic Rubber (TPR)
Thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), also referred to as thermoplastic rubbers (TPR), are a class of copolymers that consist of materials with both thermoplastic and elastomeric properties. It is utilized for the consumer-grade FFF 3D printing. TPE is a thermoplastic elastic material based on the hydrogenated product of SBS. The growing demand for the material has propelled product development such as, in September 2023, Carbon, a manufacturing technology company, announced the release of EPU 46, the newest elastomer material.
EPU 46 is a combination of several material properties, with durability, and has the choice of several rich colors. It can be applied in the customizable production of a wide range of premium products like saddles, footwear, and grips. EPU 46 is designed to meet the growing demands of a broad spectrum of industries. Additionally, EPU 46 contains 40% bio-based material and is designed to minimize production waste. The growing demand for 3D printed will increase the demand for TPE for its printability and broader mechanical properties.
Further, growing awareness of the significance of recyclable material has been pushing the market innovation. UAE-based 3D printed footwear startup ELASTIUM introduced its first 3D printed sneakers made from 100 percent recyclable foam in May 2023. The sneakers are made from lattice-structured low-density thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) foam material. The sneakers have comfort, softness, and resilience, like Crocs, and a cushioning capability comparable to high-performance sneakers.
3. A new proprietary material called Rebound Resin by Formlabs
Rebound Resin is a production-ready elastic 3D printing material. The Formlabs’ Factory Solutions have teamed up with New Balance to deliver the new 3D printing material and production system they needed to launch TripleCell. TripleCell is a new platform to deliver on-demand performance customization for consumers.
New Balance needed a 3D printing material for the necessary manufacturing and end-use applications, Formlabs materials team collaborated with the company to develop a completely new material from the ground up. Rebound Resin has resilient lattice structures, much higher energy return, tear strength, and elongation than any other Formlabs stereolithography (SLA) resin. The elongation is up to 300%, with a tear strength of 110 kN/m, and tensile strength of 22 MPa. These properties set the rebound resin distinct stand than many of its peer materials in the market.
4. Growing awareness of the significance of waste management (Circular Economy)
The Valencian Community in Spain produces 65% of the shoes in the country. It is estimated that the waste generated by footwear factories in leather scraps amounts to 3,500 tonnes per year. To solve this issue, AIMPLAS, with several other institutes, was working on the ECOFAP Project to develop a new 3D printing material based on recycled natural leather in November 2024. This can be used in different components for fashion, textiles, and footwear. Specifically, the project is focused on the footwear industry to create new materials for making soles and heels using FDM 3D printing.
This research project was framed within the concept of the circular economy. The project allows waste from the footwear industry to be recovered and reused for the development of new products. This reduces the industry’s environmental impacts. ECOFAP aimed to solve the problem of recycling leather scraps in the manufacture of footwear.
5. Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs)- class of organic material
Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are known for their versatility and biodegradability. PHAs can be an alternative to petroleum-based plastic. PHAs can be produced by bacteria that consume atmospheric carbon dioxide, methane, etc. They are biologically recyclable, and 100% biodegradable in ambient conditions.
In October 2024, OXMAN, a design lab to create and deliver nature-centric products unveiled O°, a biomaterial, digital, and robotic technology platform that powers the production of wearables that are 100% biodegradable. Their technology can produce shoes with 3D printers with combinations of computationally designed 3D-printed PHA uppers, 3D knit textiles from PHA-based yarn, and biomanufactured pigments. It has no petrochemicals or microplastics. The company aimed to replace shoes made from petroleum-derived plastics with PHAs.
Conclusion
Several major factors determine the market for the materials used for 3D printed footwear, one being the use of the material to be sustainable and recyclable which favors the circular economy. Further, the demand for cost-effective and efficient materials like TPU will be significant. Besides, several innovations and developments have pushed the research of new materials with the growing application of 3D printing.
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Tumor Ablation Market size worth US$2.125 billion by 2030
Press ReleasesThe tumor ablation market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 11.13%, reaching a market size of US$2.125 billion in 2030 from US$1.575 billion in 2025.
Tumor ablation is an image-guided technology that is used for treating tumors and cancer of the lungs, kidneys, liver, bone, etc. This technique offers efficiency in the diagnosis and prevention of tumors in their early stages. It is a minimally invasive procedure where thermal energy is used for heating and cooling the tissue to cytotoxic levels. Radiofrequency, microwave, laser, and cryoablation are common tumor ablation technology.
Growth Drivers of the Tumor Ablation Market
The rising cases of cancer and the increasing number of cancer patients are one of the major factors driving the global tumor ablation market growth. The lifestyle and modern diet of people have increased the rate of tumors and cancers in people, resulting in the growing demand for treatment and diagnosis methods like tumor ablation in the global market. Also, the technological advancements and up-gradation in research and development techniques employed in ablation devices are stimulating the global tumor ablation market growth. The high research and development investments made by several companies are raising the market share of the global tumor ablation market in the global healthcare and medical sector.
Segmentation of the Tumor Ablation Market
The tumor ablation market is driven by continued innovation in technology. There are increasing advancements in radiofrequency (RF) ablation, microwave ablation and other merging technologies that are offering more efficiency in diagnosis and tumor treatments. For example, in July 2024, AngioDynamics partnered with Immunophotonics to explore synergies in the combination of tumor ablation techniques and immunotherapy. The two companies are seeking to study how immunotherapy can amplify the immune response induced by tumor ablation, thus hopefully leading to better patient outcomes and a stronger anti-tumor effect.
The tumor ablation market is segmented, by technology, into radiofrequency (rf) ablation, microwave ablation, cryoablation, and other technologies. Radiofrequency ablation refers to using high-frequency electrical currents to generate heat that destroys abnormal tissues. Microwave ablation uses electromagnetic waves to generate heat which targets the diseased tissue, offering higher temperature production resulting in faster and effective treatment. Cryoablation refers to using extreme cold to destroy abnormal or diseased tissue. During the forecast period, although radiofrequency ablation will continue to dominate the market as it is well-established in clinical practices, microwave ablation will be growing significantly too as it is offering more effective treatment.
The tumor ablation market is segmented by application into Liver Cancer, Lung Cancer, Kidney Cancer, Bone Metastasis, and Other Applications. Tumor ablation is used to diagnose and treat liver cancer by using RF and microwave technology to destroy the abnormal tissue. This market is growing due to the increasing incidence of liver cancer. In lung cancer, tumor ablation is used with RF and microwave ablation technology to target abnormal tissue. During the forecast period, lung cancer and liver cancer segment will be growing significantly due to more efficiency offered by ablation technology and also the growing prevalence of liver and lung cancer.
Based on geography, the North American region is expected to dominate the global tumor ablation market in the forecasted years. The increasing investments made by government organisations along with advanced healthcare infrastructure and several companies in this region in cancer treatment and diagnosis techniques are one of the factors boosting tumor ablation market growth.
Key Players in the Tumor Ablation Market
The report includes the major players operating in the tumor ablation market are Healthtronics, Inc., Medtronic, PLC, Sonacare Medical, Boston Scientific Corporation, Edap TMS S.A., Misonix, Inc., Galil Medical, Inc., Neuwave Medical, Inc., Mermaid Medical A/S, and Angiodynamics, Inc.
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The Tumor Ablation Market is analyzed into the following segments:
AI Engineers Demand Outlook size worth US$9.460 million by 2029
Press ReleasesThe AI Engineers Demand Outlook is expected to grow at a CAGR of 20.17%, reaching a market size of US$9.460 million in 2029 from US$3.775 million in 2024.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) engineers are positioned at the intersection of theory and practice by developing intelligent algorithms and systems that are capable of learning, analyzing, and predicting future occurrences. They are responsible for transforming advanced math and statistics applications into realistic computing algorithms. Among the most important tasks include creating AI models, preparing data, training and fine-tuning models, implementing AI systems, and their testing and maintenance. AI engineering usually requires proficiency in areas such as computer science, math, statistics, machine learning, and deep learning. They are found in the technology, healthcare, and finance manufacturing sectors where AI is mainly used to automate tasks and analyze data for better productivity.
There is increasing recruitment of AI engineers owing to the developments in the technologies of deep learning and neural networks, edge computing, the Internet of Things (IoT), and penetration of AI into industries such as healthcare, finance, and manufacturing, among others. AI technology is used in diagnosis and treatment, AI in drug development and personalized medicine, anti-fraud and algorithmic trading, call centers and home automation, repair forecasting and quality assessment, and recommendation systems. Also, data has increased at a rapid rate which requires the skills of AI engineers to understand the data collected to make the right decisions. AI is of course a huge investment for companies as it helps in their operational efficiencies, cost-cutting, and creating a market edge. Further, automation seeks to carry out the minimum human intervention to accomplish tasks that are repetitive so that human labor is available for more tactical activities.
Numerous universities and research labs across the world are investing in AI research which is further enhancing the need for AI engineers. These variables are directly impacting the ever-increasing need for AI engineers in the world. For instance, in June 2023, Accenture bought Nextira, which is an AWS Premier Partner, to enhance its engineering skills in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning among other fields. This acquisition was targeted to accompany the engineering enhancement of Accenture Cloud First and allow the clients to leverage a complete assortment of cloud capabilities and tools.
Segmentation of the AI Engineers Demand Outlook
Based on age, the AI engineers demand outlook is divided into 25 – 40 Years, 40 – 50 Years, 50– 60 Years, and >60 Years. The group population in the 25-40-year bracket is likely to play a key role in the growth of the demand for AI engineers within the next few years because of their technological savvy, education, work experience, and flexibility. They are digital natives which means that they are comfortable with advanced technologies and have a better chance of grasping new AI technologies very quickly and without struggle. The graduate education they have pursued, such as, in computer science, data science, or machine learning programs, is also relevant to drawing upon AI.
Based on gender, the AI engineers demand outlook is classified into male and female. The increase in demand for AI engineers will improve with the rise in diversity in the industry. Both male and female AI engineers have the required skills and education and the need for these engineers is on the rise. Diversity also provides a bigger pool of talents and the range of perspectives and ways of looking at problems is enhanced. In addition, the issues of equal gender representation in the tech industry have been recognized and women are being encouraged to make careers in AI.
Based on the field, the AI engineers demand outlook is categorized into natural language processing (NLP), computer vision, machine learning applications, robotics, and others. The demand for AI Engineering is predicted to see considerable growth in the next few years due to increasing demand in all fields but mostly rapid rise in NLP and computer vision. In addition, NLP will increase demand in areas such as customer services, translation services, and content generation. As for computer vision, which allows machines to understand images, demand will be on the rise in self-driving cars, medical image retrieval and identification, and recognition systems.
Based on geography, the AI engineers demand outlook is extending majorly in the North American region due to various factors. The North American region particularly the US, has evolved into a primary geographical center for AI research and its contributions to development due to the established technological infrastructures, scientific research establishments, investments from corporations such as Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Meta, and many others and the government itself. Furthermore, given the availability of broadband internet connection, cloud procurements, and efficient research centers, the region is conducive to the development activities of AI. These facilities also tend to train high-level professional AI engineers which in turn fuel the development of the AI market.
Key Players in the AI Engineers Demand Outlook
As a part of the report, the major players operating in the AI engineers demand outlook that have been covered are Google LLC, IBM Corporation, Amazon Web Services, Inc., Cisco Systems Inc., Nvidia Corporation, Microsoft Corporation, Siemens AG, Oracle Corporation, SAP SE, and Alibaba Cloud.
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This analytics report segments the AI engineers demand outlook on the following basis:
Top Innovations in Biodegradable Packaging Materials for a Sustainable Future
BlogPackaging plays such an important role in our lives and really matters for almost every purchase choice made by a person in terms of product buying. But in the woke world, it seems that with all the growing concerns across the globe regarding waste, one can find the packaging industry now facing the music of having to lessen its impacts upon the environment.
Sustainable packaging, which refers to any type of packaging that minimizes its environmental impact during its entire life-cycle-that is, during the sourcing of its material, production, distribution, use, disposal, and recycling-is an all-encompassing term. It considers all aspects, for instance, types of material used, energy consumption in production, carbon footprint, recyclability, and compostability.
Further, there has been a drastic transition to sustainable packing options even during the post-pandemic years, due to many such regulations and the consumer’s own appetite for green products.
Increasingly, however, consumers have included green constructions within their purchase decisions. People are becoming more health-conscious about the effects of climate change on the health of the planet, which in turn influences the buying decision. They are inclined towards brands that are committed to reducing their environmental impact through the aforementioned sustainable practices.
Sustainable packaging of course finds some answer in consumer demand. Besides, the other benefits that green packaging brings to companies include economic ones. Companies that use sustainable packaging solutions are likely to lower their long-term production costs. This is because sustainable materials are usually lighter and require less energy in production, hence resulting in cost savings for companies.
Moreover, the increased demand for biodegradable packaging was probably caused by its environmental, regulatory, and consumer concerns. Businesses are becoming more aware and wake up to the importance of sustainability; consequently, eco-friendly packaging can now form a huge part of businesses’ direct requirements for packaging solutions. Increased awareness toward environmental degradation, especially plastic waste, has been one of the biggest drivers of this trend. Traditional plastics packaging is a major source of waste going into landfills and oceans, which end up harming different species and ecosystems.
Moreover, many governments and regions have drafted stringent legislation to minimize the use of plastics and promote the usage of biodegradable alternatives. To name only one from the many examples, the EU’s Single-Use Plastics Directive has speeded up the transition to biodegradable packaging by prohibiting some single-use plastic products and, at the same time, advocating the usage of more sustainable alternatives. For instance, the global plastic production increased from 394 mt in 2021 to 400.3 mt in 2022.
Global Plastics Production in Million Tonnes, 2021 to 2022
Source: Plastics Europe
Top Innovation in Biodegradable Packaging
Let’s discuss each in detail.
Imagining munching on our packaging material after a meal is one of the future scenarios. One could say goodbye to recycling because edible packages have long been a reality. From seaweed-based films to edible coatings, these new-styled, alternative solutions will biodegrade and be delicious as compared to normal packaging materials. WikiFoods and Loliware are among the most popular companies that have developed options for edible packaging that use only natural, food-safe substances. They cut plastic use and offer a very special and sustainable way of packaging. It would seem that one day, more could be said on the topic than just ice cream cones, the original icon of edible packaging.
Nature often provides the best innovative solutions, as is well exemplified by mushroom packing. Biodegradable packaging material from mycelium, the root structure of mushrooms, comes as a sustainable alternative to Styrofoam, and other synthetic packaging foams. Mycelium-based packaging is compostable and renewable since it can grow in a matter of days using agricultural waste as an initial substrate. Its second claim to fame is that it is durable, lightweight, and decomposes swiftly. Developing a mushroom pack for various application purposes, including electrical protection or building insulation, has been spearheaded by companies such as Ecovative Design.
The production of conventional plastics from fossil fuels results in major environment pollution. These manmade bioplastics may contain plant-derived starch, sugarcane, corn, or cellulose. Unlike traditional polymers, bio-based polymers are biodegradable and compostable, so reducing the environmental impact of packaging materials. Example, plant-based polymers manufactured by NatureWorks have been employed in different applications, as food packaging and consumer products.
Flexible packaging is also the most preferred because it is lightweight and user-friendly. Conventional flexible packaging, on the other hand, is quite challenging with respect to recyclability due to its complex multilayered structure. New collective solutions for recyclable flexible packaging were developed in 2024, including mono-material designs compatible with modern recycling infrastructures. These materials, while keeping their flexibility and barrier characteristics as regular packaging, make recyclability easy at the end of life. Leading recyclable flexible packages engineers and developer, Dow and Amcor, continue to fasten the pace of transition to a circular economy. Probably, this is the most ingenious cooperation as established by Sway and Ecoenclose who come up with a new line of packaging with seaweed-based films that replaces the plastic windows.
Single-use plastics, such as packaging films and sachets, play an enormous part in plastic pollution, particularly in the marine aspect. This solvent packaging is a solution to this problem as it actually dissolves in water, which makes it not needing any further disposal and at the same time lowers the hazards of environmental pollution. These amazing materials are designed to dissolve safely in water without leaving any toxic residues behind, making them suitable for an extensive range of applications that include single-dose packaging and detergent pods. This area has three impressive leaders, SmartSolve, MonoSol, and Aquapak Polymers, who have been at the helm of creating and innovating water-soluble packaging materials, thus revolutionizing packaging and consumption.
Reusable packaging refers to a family of containers, boxes, and other materials intended to be frequently reused in their lifetime instead of being disposed of after one use. Usually, reusable packaging solutions are made with durable materials, including plastics, glass, metals, and sometimes even composite materials that will last longer. Durable and designed-for-long-life reuse will greatly reduce trash output and promote a more circular economy across companies. Reusable packaging systems may be entirely transformed with smart technology like RFID tags or sensors. Such activities will provide real-time tracking and monitoring of efficient return, storage, and management of packaging assets. Transparent and open packaging enables companies to optimize logistics and spot areas of improvement.
Future
The developments in eco-friendly packaging have brought major environmental promise, but such benefits come with various hurdles. Most bio-based materials are still more expensive compared to the conventional plastics. Cost mitigations will happen with scale and improved manufacturing. There would be a need for appropriate collection, effective composting and recycling infrastructure to ensure the correct treatment of these biodegradable and recyclable packaging materials. Education of consumers about the advantages brought by sustainable packaging and proper disposal methods is critical to ensure a widely transformed scenario. Such innovations in sustainable packaging must be promoted through incentive policies by many governments and regulatory organizations.
Conclusion
Such transformative green packaging solutions take a completely fresh dimension on the agricultural sector by adapting to a greener alternative from age-old techniques. Biodegradable and non-biodegradable packaging, edible packaging, reuse systems, and advances in material science are going to barrel the bright avenue for the ecology. These issues will be solved with such things as cost and the necessity of setting up a consumer base and power allowances for necessary government support to bring wide effects of these sustainable substitutes into the commercial sector. Within the continually evolving sector, sustainable packaging is and shall be key in minimizing the growing environmental impacts of agriculture as well as ensuring a sustainable postharvest future.
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Sample Preparation Market size worth US$7,760.027 million by 2030
Press ReleasesThe sample preparation market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.54%, reaching a market size of US$7,760.027 million in 2030 from US$6,792.415 million in 2025.
A process for converting chemical and biological samples into a form that can be directly inserted into an instrument for analysis is termed sample preparation. The sample preparation market includes products that are used to prepare biological and chemical samples to analyze raw materials to detect undesirable elements.
Growth Drivers of the Sample Preparation Market
One of the major growth potential factors of the global sample preparation market is the importance and application of sample preparation in pharmaceutical research. Sample preparation is important for every type of research and analysis associated with the chemical and biological sector, where the process and analysis of proper sample preparation support these. The large investments of major companies and governments in promoting the research and analysis sector of the chemical, biological, and food industries are boosting the market value of sample preparation products in the global market.
Miniaturization, automation, high-throughput performance, the potential of new sample preparation instruments to integrate with existing analytical instruments, and a reduction in solvent volume and time are also driving the market value of sample preparation products in the global market. The efficiency demonstrated by sample analysis in providing accurate results in chemical and biological research is also driving the sample preparation market growth.
Segmentation of the Sample Preparation Market
Based on product, the sample preparation market is divided into instruments, consumables, sample preparation kits, and other products. The instruments segment consists of centrifuges, homogenizers, and similar devices for the processing of samples. Consumables include filters, tubes, and reagents, among others that prepare sample preparation workflows. Sample preparation kits are pre-packaged solutions that come ready to apply to a particular task or application, including RNA/DNA extraction kit and protein purification. The other products relate to tools and accessories that assist the sample preparation process. These together represent the wide and varied requirements for research, diagnostic, and industrial laboratories.
The sample preparation market is categorized based on application into proteomics, genomics, epigenomics, and others. Proteomics looks at the study of proteins, including their structures and functions. Genomics is essentially a study of an organism’s genome-an analysis involving DNA sequencing and gene mapping. Epigenomics focuses on chemical modifications to genetic material that result in the regulation of gene expression without changing the DNA sequence. Meanwhile, others are a catch-all for other types of fields, like metabolomics and lipidomics, as well as all the niches that use sample preparation.
Based on end-users, the sample preparation market is bifurcated into pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, laboratory diagnostics, and others. The drug discovery, development, and quality control processes mainly use sample preparation techniques in the pharmaceutical sector. The biotechnology industry applies sample preparation in research, genetic engineering, and bioprocessing. Laboratory diagnostics heavily depend on sample preparation for clinical and research analysis and testing. The other category is comprised of academic and research institutes, environmental testing laboratories, and forensic laboratories, all of which significantly apply sample preparation in different areas.
Geographically, North America is expected to hold a significant share of the sample preparation market due to its advanced healthcare infrastructure, high research and development activities, presence in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, strict regulatory standards, increasing focus on diagnostic testing and personalized medicine, collaborations, biobanking initiatives, technological advancements, increased funding for life sciences research, and market competitiveness.
Key Players in the Sample Preparation Market
As a part of the report, the major players operating in the global sample preparation market that have been covered are Agilent Technologies, Danaher Corporation, Illumina, Merck Millipore (Merck KGaA), Danaher Corporation, Roche, Perkinelmer, Inc., and Norgen Biotek Corporation, Qiagen N.V.
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This analytics report segments the global sample preparation market on the following basis:
Top 10 Smart Grid Companies Driving Innovation and Efficiency
Thought ArticlesAs the energy crisis and rising prices escalate, technological innovation trends in the energy storage sector start to gravitate towards smart grid technology. This assists in running electrical networks to a more efficient mode of operation where devices can control demand, protect distribution networks, save energy, and, thereby, costs. The inflexible traditional energy grids provide access to renewable technologies, allowing only one-way power flow where consumers receive electricity from centralized sources.
The biggest distribution of clean, renewable energy at the edge of the grid is the smart grid, several small-generation systems are operated by individual consumers or businesses. It requires sophisticated computing to manage and optimize intermittent loads and a “total system” approach for balancing all these fluctuating energy sources, consumption levels, and newly added renewable technologies. The International Energy Agency estimates that approximately $600 billion will have to be invested per year up until 2030 in electricity grids for the global energy sector to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. This demands subsequent collaboration between public and private organizations in pursuit of the same energy goals.
Top 10 smart grid companies:
Let’s discuss each in detail.
Siemens provides the energy intelligence platform for more adaptable and sustainable grid power. Smart grids leverage digital, IoT solutions to adapt and intelligently respond to changes in the grid. By adding energy intelligence to Siemens’ Xcelerator for Grids portfolio, grid operators can realize more reliable, cost-effective, flexible, safe, and sustainable operations. In the energy challenge in world reaching net zero,the company provides digital portfolio with hardware solutions which connect grids, and markets offering a well-grounded energy/ power supply.
In August 2024 the company announced the launch of two latest Gridscale X software products. The two products are targeted towards enabling Transmission System Operators (TSOs) to operate grids closer to their physical limits and manage the complexity associated with the energy transition. These products are an imperative part of Siemens Xcelerator that will offer the customers easy, fast, and scaled transformations into digital transformation, thus paving the way toward flexible and autonomous grid management.
IBM provides pioneered technology on a global scale including smart grid technology. It offers Maximo Applications Suite, support for smart grid adoption and development, for a foreign-tethered corporation that has offices in over 175 countries. IBM Maximo Application Suite, an embedded artificial intelligence solution, has been built to optimize performance, streamline utility operations, and simplify the smart grid transition. Among its advantages for utilities in making decisions are the CMMS, EAM, and APM abilities with advanced analytics for smarter, data-structured decisions. This comprehensive integrated platform enables energy and utility organizations to make informed decisions using sustainable choices.
Cisco provides smart grid solutions that can help improve the modernization, security, and reliability of the utility. Addressing the proposal of changing environmental, consumer, and regulatory conditions, the company offers the best-suited solutions under Distribution Automation by linking data communication infrastructure to monitor and control the electrical distribution grid components from remote locations. Thus, allowing operators in real-time distribution and consumption of power data collection and information, providing predictive insight and recommendations for utilities, suppliers, and customers.
The company’s work in utilities reduces risk through security, visibility, and automation, improves efficiency through modernized grids, strengthens resiliency, increases productivity, and enhances accessibility and mobility.
This Swedish-Swiss multinational company has now embarked on making smart grid projects to enhance accountability in power distribution, meter accuracy, and conservation voltage for energy-efficient reading. In April 2024, ABB announced a minority investment in GridBeyond, a leading technology provider offering energy management solutions using artificial intelligence and data science. The investment, made through ABB Ventures, will help customers optimize distributed energy resources and industrial loads, thereby contributing to ABB’s sustainability advisory services portfolio.
Similarly, in August 2024, ABB launched ADAM which is a management solution for cloud-enabled power grid distribution in Vietnam. ADAM optimizes the supervision and administration of power distribution networks, integrating it with the SSC600 platform. Thus, integration is relevant to that since such improvements will enhance stability and efficiency performance in terms of grid operations in a country with such aspirations- those aspirations being the modernization of energy systems and the modernization of infrastructural energy.
Itron is delivering smart grid solutions for utilities and cities that can make their energy and water more efficient. The solution is designed to be implemented in a variety of operating conditions addressing various business priorities and investment goals, thus providing customers visibility they have never experienced before in all about measurement, control, network management, system operations data management, and analysis.
Itron announced the launch of Grid Edge Essentials in October 2024. It is a cost-efficient pre-integrated solution powered by distributed intelligence and will offer utilities a more effective and quick energy transition by solving their major issues dealing with the grid edge. The step will facilitate a smooth entry into new technologies by allowing visibility into the grid edge for distribution and allowing consumer engagement to be improved.
Enphase Energy planned to ramp up its grid services program to New Hampshire, North Carolina, and California, making it a leader in supplying microinverter-based solar and battery systems in October 2024. This is a kind of program that pumps energy from home batteries into the community during peak demand periods to replace expensive and polluting power plants. Incentives for homeowners include reductions in utility costs such as discounts on Enphase Energy Systems with IQ Batteries or continuous payments.
S&C Electric Company is the major player in the business of smart grid and the manufacturing of products that can help in controlling or protecting power flowing through energy lines. Some of these products offered include Intelligent Electronic Devices (IEDs), Reclosers, Sectionalizers, Distribution Automation Systems, and Grid Modernization Solutions. IEDs give faster response time and more reliable services, while the two devices above isolate faults on the grid and thus reduce service interruptions. Moreover, Distribution Automation Systems allow utilities to take actions on those grid facilities remotely, improving the production efficiency further along with reduced maintenance costs.
Stem is the world’s foremost AI-driven energy storage solution, optimizing and maximizing renewable energy value by coupling newly integrated technologies with Athena®. It helped enterprises set up a smart, flexible clean energy infrastructure, so that they can achieve resilience, sustainability, cost savings, environmental footprint, and innovation.
Uplight is a technology partner for energy providers transitioning to a decarbonized future announced its acquisition of AutoGrid, a Virtual Power Plant and Distributed Energy Resource Management System provider in December 2023. Uplight will then be able to develop and manage flexible capacity in energy grids and do so in three areas: electrification, digitization, and decarbonization.
Eaton is a company in power management, which produces GridAdvisor optical medium-voltage and current sensors to measure and provide site intelligence in real time into electrical distribution grid systems, substations, and underground locations as well as electrical, hydraulic, and aerospace domains. The latest invention brought onto the market by Eaton was in September 2024 is the AbleEdge system that contributes to the smart revolution of smart breakers and home energy management upgrading the smart grid technology.