Global Surge Arrester Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)
By Type;
Polymeric and Porcelain.By Voltage;
Low Voltage, Medium Voltage, and High Voltage.By Application;
Industrial, Commercial, and Residential.By Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031).Introduction
Global Surge Arrester Market (USD Million), 2021 - 2031
In the year 2024, the Global Surge Arrester Market was valued at USD 1,782.88 million. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 2,475.43 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.8%.
A surge arrester, also known as a lightning arrester, is a critical device in electrical power systems designed to protect equipment from over-voltage transients caused by external (lightning) or internal (switching) events. Its primary function is to limit voltage surges to a safe level, preventing damage to electrical apparatus such as transformers, switchgear, and substations. Surge arresters are typically installed at strategic points in the power system, including at the terminals of equipment and along transmission and distribution lines, to ensure comprehensive protection.
The working principle of a surge arrester involves diverting the excess voltage to the ground, thus clamping the voltage across the protected equipment to a safer level. This is achieved through components like metal-oxide varistors (MOVs) or silicon carbide (SiC) elements, which exhibit high resistance under normal operating conditions and low resistance when a surge occurs. When the voltage exceeds a certain threshold, the arrester conducts the surge current away from the sensitive equipment, effectively shunting it to the ground. Once the surge has passed, the arrester returns to its high-resistance state, ready for the next event.
Surge arresters are classified based on their application and construction. Distribution class arresters are used in medium-voltage networks, while station class arresters are designed for high-voltage installations, offering superior energy handling capabilities and durability. Additionally, there are intermediate class arresters that bridge the gap between distribution and station classes. Modern surge arresters commonly use metal-oxide technology due to its superior performance and reliability compared to older technologies like silicon carbide.
The significance of surge arresters extends beyond just the protection of electrical infrastructure. By preventing equipment failure, they enhance the reliability and stability of the power supply, reducing outages and maintenance costs. In industries and utilities, surge arresters play a crucial role in safeguarding sensitive electronics and ensuring operational continuity. Moreover, in an era where power systems are increasingly integrated with renewable energy sources and smart grid technologies, the role of surge arresters is becoming even more vital to cope with the complex dynamics and enhance the resilience of the electrical grid.
Global Surge Arrester Market Recent Developments
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In November 2022, Eaton expanded its portfolio of surge protection devices with the introduction of new products for residential and commercial applications.
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In March 2023, Siemens launched its Siprotec Surge Arresters, offering advanced protection against overvoltage transients.
Segment Analysis
By type, the surge arrester market is divided into polymeric and porcelain surge arresters. Polymeric surge arresters are gaining popularity due to their superior electrical and mechanical properties, such as better flexibility, lightweight design, and enhanced resistance to environmental factors. These arresters are particularly preferred in areas with harsh environmental conditions, as their polymeric housing offers better durability and resistance to corrosion compared to porcelain. On the other hand, porcelain surge arresters, which have been in use for decades, continue to dominate the market due to their reliability, strength, and long lifespan. They are commonly used in high-voltage applications and are favored for their superior thermal performance and mechanical strength, especially in traditional utility applications. The polymeric segment, however, is expected to grow at a faster pace, driven by ongoing advancements in materials technology and the increasing demand for more adaptable and cost-effective solutions in newer electrical networks.
By voltage, the surge arrester market is categorized into low, medium, and high voltage. The low voltage segment is anticipated to hold a substantial share of the market, driven by increasing demand for surge protection in residential and commercial sectors. With the growing integration of electronic devices and the increasing adoption of smart home systems, the need for low-voltage surge arresters is set to rise. The medium voltage segment is poised to experience significant growth as well, owing to the expansion of industrial automation, power distribution networks, and infrastructure development. High voltage surge arresters are typically used in power transmission and high-capacity industrial applications. This segment is expected to grow at a steady pace as industries increasingly invest in modernizing infrastructure and upgrading power grids, especially in emerging economies.
In terms of application, the industrial segment is projected to hold the largest share of the surge arrester market during the forecast period. Industries that rely heavily on electrical power, such as manufacturing, mining, and utilities, are keen on minimizing downtime and ensuring the reliability of their electrical equipment. Surge arresters provide a critical safeguard in these sectors, especially in regions with high incidences of lightning strikes or electrical surges. The commercial sector is also set to see growth due to the increasing number of commercial buildings and the rising demand for uninterrupted power supply. Lastly, the residential sector is expected to experience steady growth, driven by the growing number of households adopting electronic appliances, HVAC systems, and smart technologies.
Global Surge Arrester Segment Analysis
In this report, the Global Surge Arrester Market has been segmented by Type, Voltage, Application, and Geography.
Global Surge Arrester Market, Segmentation by Type
The Global Surge Arrester Market has been segmented by Type into Polymeric and Porcelain.
Polymeric Surge Arresters: Polymeric surge arresters are increasingly gaining popularity due to their robust characteristics, which make them suitable for a wide range of applications. The outer casing of these arresters is made of a polymeric material, typically a composite of elastomers, plastics, or synthetic materials. This design makes polymeric surge arresters highly durable and resistant to environmental factors such as extreme temperatures, UV exposure, and humidity. Their lightweight and compact nature also make them easier to transport and install, which is particularly advantageous in areas with limited access or difficult conditions. Polymeric arresters are preferred for outdoor installations in locations that are prone to high voltage surges, such as substations, distribution lines, and power plants. Additionally, their ability to withstand mechanical stress and vibrations makes them ideal for use in high-risk areas like industrial plants and transportation systems. Moreover, they tend to offer a longer service life, reducing the need for frequent maintenance and replacements. With increasing demand for efficient and cost-effective surge protection, the polymeric surge arrester market is expected to witness substantial growth, driven by factors such as their lower maintenance costs, improved performance, and environmental friendliness.
Porcelain Surge Arresters: On the other hand, porcelain surge arresters have been a mainstay in the industry for many years. These surge arresters feature a porcelain body that provides a high level of mechanical strength and stability, making them particularly effective in areas where physical durability is crucial. The porcelain casing is also resistant to electrical wear, providing excellent insulation properties and ensuring reliable performance in high-voltage environments. These surge arresters are typically used in electrical power systems, including overhead lines, substations, and transformer installations, where their ability to handle high energy levels and extreme surges is essential. While porcelain surge arresters are heavier and more cumbersome than polymeric options, they offer superior resilience in harsh environmental conditions, including exposure to extreme weather and seismic activity. Their longer lifespan, coupled with their reliability and higher dielectric strength, makes them a preferred choice for critical infrastructure in both residential and industrial applications. However, the heavier nature of porcelain surge arresters may limit their use in certain scenarios, particularly where lightweight alternatives are required for ease of installation.
Both types of surge arresters serve the same purpose but are suited to different needs based on their material properties. Polymeric surge arresters are favored for their flexibility, lower weight, and ability to withstand environmental stress, while porcelain surge arresters are valued for their high mechanical strength, durability, and performance in high-energy applications. The choice between these two types ultimately comes down to specific application requirements such as environmental conditions, voltage levels, and installation preferences, leading to a diversified surge arrester market. As industries continue to expand and the demand for reliable power infrastructure rises, both polymeric and porcelain surge arresters will play a significant role in ensuring the protection of electrical networks worldwide.
Global Surge Arrester Market, Segmentation by Voltage
The Global Surge Arrester Market has been segmented by Voltage into Low Voltage, Medium Voltage and High Voltage.
Low voltage surge arresters are predominantly utilized in residential and light commercial applications. These devices are essential for safeguarding household appliances, consumer electronics, and small-scale commercial equipment from electrical surges caused by lightning strikes, power outages, and switching operations. The increasing proliferation of electronic devices and smart home technologies has bolstered the demand for low voltage surge arresters, as consumers seek to protect their investments from electrical damage and ensure uninterrupted functionality.
Medium voltage surge arresters find their primary applications in industrial and larger commercial settings, where they are used to protect equipment such as transformers, switchgear, and motors. Operating within the voltage range of 1,000 to 35,000 volts, these surge arresters are designed to handle more significant electrical loads and more frequent voltage fluctuations. Industrial environments, characterized by heavy machinery and complex electrical systems, require reliable surge protection to prevent costly downtime and equipment failures. The medium voltage segment is experiencing growth driven by industrialization, the expansion of manufacturing capacities, and the need for resilient power infrastructure to support production processes and automation technologies.
High voltage surge arresters are critical for ensuring the stability and reliability of electrical grids and large-scale industrial operations. These devices are used in applications that involve voltages above 35,000 volts, including substations, transmission lines, and high-capacity industrial machinery. High voltage surge arresters are engineered to withstand severe electrical surges resulting from lightning strikes and switching transients, which can propagate through the power grid and cause extensive damage. The demand for high voltage surge arresters is driven by the ongoing expansion and modernization of electrical grids, the integration of renewable energy sources, and the need to enhance grid resilience against extreme weather events. As the global energy landscape evolves, the high voltage segment is poised for significant growth, supported by advancements in materials and technology that enhance the performance and durability of surge protection devices.
Global Surge Arrester Market, Segmentation by Application
The Global Surge Arrester Market has been segmented by Application into Industrial, Commercial and Residential.
In industrial applications, surge arresters are crucial for safeguarding high-value equipment such as transformers, motors, generators, and switchgear. These devices protect against voltage spikes caused by lightning strikes, switching operations, and insulation failures, which can lead to significant downtime and financial losses. Industrial environments, often characterized by large-scale and high-voltage operations, demand robust and reliable surge protection to ensure the continuous and safe operation of critical infrastructure. This segment is driven by the need to minimize operational disruptions and maintain productivity.
In the commercial sector, surge arresters play a vital role in protecting electronic systems and infrastructure in office buildings, shopping centers, hospitals, and other business environments. These applications often involve a mix of sensitive electronic equipment such as computers, communication systems, HVAC systems, and security systems. Surge arresters in commercial settings are designed to prevent damage to these devices from transient over-voltages, ensuring the reliability and efficiency of business operations. The commercial market for surge arresters is influenced by the growing reliance on technology, the increasing complexity of electrical installations, and the need for uninterrupted power supply to support various critical and non-critical operations.
Residential applications of surge arresters focus on protecting household appliances and personal electronic devices from power surges caused by lightning, power outages, and switching surges. These devices are essential for maintaining the longevity and performance of home electronics, such as televisions, computers, refrigerators, and other appliances. The residential surge arrester market is driven by the rising awareness of the importance of surge protection among homeowners, the increasing value and sensitivity of home electronics, and the growing incidence of electrical disturbances due to more frequent severe weather events. Easy installation, affordability, and compliance with safety standards are key factors influencing the adoption of surge arresters in residential settings, ensuring the protection of personal property and enhancing overall electrical safety in homes.
Global Surge Arrester Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Global Surge Arrester Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Global Surge Arrester Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2023
Asia-Pacific region holds the highest share in the global surge arrester market. This dominance can be attributed to several factors, including rapid industrialization, urbanization, and significant investments in infrastructure development across countries such as China, India, Japan, and South Korea. The region's extensive and growing power generation and distribution networks require reliable surge protection to ensure the stability and safety of electrical systems. Additionally, the increasing adoption of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, has further bolstered the demand for surge arresters, as these systems need robust protection against voltage transients to maintain operational efficiency and longevity.
China, in particular, plays a pivotal role in the Asia-Pacific region's dominance. The country's substantial investment in upgrading its power grid infrastructure and expanding its energy generation capacity, both conventional and renewable, drives a significant portion of the demand for surge arresters. Similarly, India's ongoing efforts to enhance its electrical grid reliability and expand access to electricity in rural areas contribute to the region's market share. The focus on smart grid development and the integration of advanced technologies also supports the growth of the surge arrester market in the Asia-Pacific region, as these innovations necessitate enhanced protective measures against electrical surges.
Government policies and regulations aimed at improving power quality and reliability further stimulate the surge arrester market in the Asia-Pacific. Programs promoting infrastructure development, energy efficiency, and the adoption of renewable energy are key drivers. The presence of leading manufacturers and a robust supply chain in the region also enhances its market position. As a result, the Asia-Pacific region not only leads in market share but also sets the pace for technological advancements and innovation in surge protection solutions. This regional dominance is expected to continue as countries within the Asia-Pacific further develop their electrical infrastructure and prioritize the adoption of advanced protective technologies.
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Surge Arrester Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers:
- Growing Demand for Reliable Power Supply
- Increasing Industrialization and Urbanization
- Expansion of Power Generation and Transmission Infrastructure
- Adoption of Renewable Energy Sources -
Renewable energy installations, such as solar panels and wind turbines, are particularly vulnerable to voltage surges caused by lightning strikes and grid switching events due to their exposure and integration with the power grid. Surge arresters play a critical role in safeguarding these installations from damage, ensuring their longevity, and maintaining consistent energy output. As countries around the world increase their investments in renewable energy to meet sustainability goals and reduce carbon emissions, the demand for effective surge protection solutions is consequently on the rise.
In regions with high renewable energy adoption, such as Europe and North America, there is a substantial need for advanced surge protection to support the integration of renewable energy into the existing power grids. These regions have set ambitious targets for renewable energy deployment, which includes large-scale wind farms and expansive solar power plants. The intermittent and variable nature of renewable energy sources can lead to fluctuations in power supply, making the electrical infrastructure more susceptible to transient over-voltages. Surge arresters are essential for mitigating these risks, protecting both the renewable energy equipment and the broader grid infrastructure from potentially costly disruptions and damage.
The push towards decentralized power generation and microgrids further amplifies the importance of surge arresters. As more households and businesses adopt rooftop solar panels and small-scale wind turbines, the need for localized surge protection becomes critical. These distributed energy resources (DERs) must be integrated seamlessly with the main grid, requiring sophisticated surge protection to handle the dynamic interactions and prevent adverse effects on the overall electrical network. As the global emphasis on renewable energy continues to grow, driven by environmental concerns and government incentives, the surge arrester market is poised to expand, providing essential protection to ensure the reliability and efficiency of renewable energy systems.
Restraints:
- High Initial Costs and Installation Expenses
- Stringent Regulatory and Compliance Requirements
- Lack of Awareness and Technical Expertise
- Limited Availability of Raw Materials -
Surge arresters require specialized materials, such as metal oxide varistors (MOVs), ceramics, and polymers, to effectively dissipate transient voltage spikes and protect electrical systems. However, the supply of these raw materials is susceptible to various factors, including geopolitical tensions, trade disputes, and natural disasters, which can disrupt production and supply chains. As a result, manufacturers may face shortages or increased costs for sourcing essential components, leading to production delays and potential price escalations for surge arresters.
The limited availability of raw materials not only affects production volumes but also impacts the quality and performance of surge arresters. Manufacturers may be compelled to compromise on material quality or seek alternative sources, which could compromise the reliability and effectiveness of the surge protection devices. Moreover, fluctuations in raw material prices can further strain profit margins for manufacturers, making it challenging to maintain competitiveness in the market. This constraint on the availability of raw materials underscores the importance of supply chain resilience and strategic sourcing practices for mitigating risks and ensuring continuity of production in the surge arrester industry.
The limited availability of raw materials can hinder innovation and technological advancements in surge arrester design and performance. Manufacturers may face constraints in developing new materials or improving existing ones to enhance the efficiency, durability, and environmental sustainability of surge protection devices. Without access to adequate raw materials, the industry's ability to address emerging challenges, such as higher voltage requirements, extreme weather events, and the integration of renewable energy systems, may be impeded. Therefore, overcoming the constraints posed by the limited availability of raw materials requires collaboration among industry stakeholders, investment in research and development, and diversification of supply sources to ensure the resilience and long-term growth of the global surge arrester market.
Opportunities:
- Increasing Demand for Reliable Power Supply in Emerging Economies
- Growing Investments in Energy Efficiency Initiatives
- Expansion of Electrification Projects in Rural Areas
- Increasing Adoption of Electric Vehicles and Associated Charging Infrastructure -
The increasing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and the associated expansion of charging infrastructure present significant opportunities for the global surge arrester market. As governments worldwide implement policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change, there has been a rapid rise in the adoption of EVs. This surge in electric vehicle sales necessitates the development of robust charging infrastructure, including public charging stations, residential charging points, and fast-charging networks. Surge arresters play a crucial role in protecting EV charging equipment from voltage surges and fluctuations, ensuring the safety and reliability of the charging process. As the EV market continues to grow, the demand for surge protection solutions in charging infrastructure is expected to increase substantially.
The expansion of EV charging infrastructure also opens up opportunities for surge arrester manufacturers to innovate and develop specialized solutions tailored to the unique requirements of electric vehicle charging systems. These systems often operate at higher voltages and currents than traditional electrical equipment, requiring surge protection devices capable of handling the increased power levels efficiently. Furthermore, advancements in EV technology, such as fast-charging capabilities and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) integration, present new challenges for surge protection, driving the need for innovative solutions that can adapt to evolving charging trends. Surge arrester manufacturers can capitalize on these opportunities by collaborating with EV charging infrastructure providers to develop customized surge protection solutions that meet the specific needs of the rapidly expanding EV market.
Another opportunity stemming from the increasing adoption of electric vehicles and charging infrastructure is the potential for market expansion into new geographical regions. As governments and businesses worldwide invest in electrification initiatives and roll out EV charging networks, surge arrester manufacturers have the opportunity to enter emerging markets and establish a presence in regions where the EV market is still nascent. By leveraging their expertise in surge protection technology and forming strategic partnerships with local stakeholders, surge arrester manufacturers can position themselves as key players in the burgeoning EV charging infrastructure market. This expansion into new regions not only drives revenue growth but also enables surge arrester manufacturers to contribute to the global transition towards sustainable transportation and energy.
Competitive Landscape Analysis
Key players in Global Surge Arrester Market include:
- ABB Ltd.
- CG Power and Industrial Solutions Ltd
- Eaton Corporation PLC
- Emerson Electric Co.
- Legrand SA
- Siemens AG
- Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
- Raycap Corporation SA
- Schneider electric SE
- General Electric Company
- Advanced Protection Technologies Inc
- Leviton Manufacturing Company
- Littlefuse
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Type
- Market Snapshot, By Voltage
- Market Snapshot, By Application
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Market Snapshot, By Type
- Global Surge Arrester Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
- Growing Demand for Reliable Power Supply
- Increasing Industrialization and Urbanization
- Expansion of Power Generation and Transmission Infrastructure
- Adoption of Renewable Energy Sources
- Restraints
- High Initial Costs and Installation Expenses
- Stringent Regulatory and Compliance Requirements
- Lack of Awareness and Technical Expertise
- Limited Availability of Raw Materials
- Opportunities
- Increasing Demand for Reliable Power Supply in Emerging Economies
- Growing Investments in Energy Efficiency Initiatives
- Expansion of Electrification Projects in Rural Areas
- Increasing Adoption of Electric Vehicles and Associated Charging Infrastructure
- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bragaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
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Global Surge Arrester Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Polymeric
- Porcelain
- Global Surge Arrester Market, By Voltage, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Low Voltage
- Medium Voltage
- High Voltage
- Global Surge Arrester Market, By Application, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Industrial
- Commercial
- Residential
- Global Surge Arrester Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
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- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- ABB Ltd.
- CG Power and Industrial Solutions Ltd
- Eaton Corporation PLC
- Emerson Electric Co.
- Legrand SA
- Siemens AG
- Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
- Raycap Corporation SA
- Schneider electric SE
- General Electric Company
- Advanced Protection Technologies Inc
- Leviton Manufacturing Company
- Littlefuse
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market