Electrical Industry Trends to Watch For

The electrical industry has been booming in the last couple of years, shifting to digital technologies and integration. As innovation and growth continue there are some important trends to watch in the coming year.

In this post we will cover the recent advances in the electrical industry including:

Smart buildings
High tech PPE
Microgrids
Drones
Energy Storage

Increase in Demand for Smart Buildings

5G is bringing another layer of integration into our homes and businesses allowing devices to communicate with each other and allowing users to easily connect.

Smart cities, schools, transportation, hospitals, etc., will be powered by wireless tech and increased connectivity. Contractors and technicians with experience in smart technology and systems will succeed as we navigate into this new future. This includes the implementation of these new technologies and an understanding of how this ecosystem can help people better connect with systems that make their lives easier.

High Tech PPE

High tech wearables and personal protective equipment are finding their way into the electrical industry. This takes equipment to a new level, providing smart protection and organization with important information.

For example, one of these smart devices is Proxxi. This armband is a wearable voltage sensor that radically reduces the risk of electrical contact injuries and electrocution. It provides real-time insights into workers’ behavior and warns the wearer when they are too close to a dangerous electrical field.

The device can connect to a phone, alerting other contractors when there is a warning. The data then moves to the broader organization, assisting in decision-making, and ensuring that everyone is aware.

There are also additional advances in traditional PPE for protecting the hands and face as well as flame-retardant clothing. Materials that make up this protective equipment are becoming more effective, lighter-weight, and more accessible.

Microgrids

Microgrids are local grids that operate on their own. Since they can run alone, they can strengthen grid resilience and help lower the risks of grid disturbances when the main grid is down.

Microgrids support an overall efficient grid by using renewable energy sources, like solar, wind, and hydropower. The use of local energy sources helps reduce energy loss, resulting in increased efficiency of the electric system.

The electrical industry is driven by the need for security, resiliency, and remote areas’ electrification — which microgrids can solve.

Drones

Electrical engineers can use drones to monitor and examine hazardous electrical zones without harming themselves or others. This provides a higher level of safety in the electrical industry.

Also, drones can collect and record data on the site, which others in the organization can use. As a result, drones help increase productivity, safety, and efficiency.

Energy Storage

Renewable energy sources are great for sustainable energy, but those energy sources aren’t always available for use. Energy must be saved (from solar, wind, biomass, etc.) and then stored.

To solve this, the electricity industry is working towards better battery and energy storage systems. The demand for a cleaner and more dynamic grid has led to energy storage initiatives and more efficient energy storage solutions.

Electrical engineers and contractors need the necessary knowledge to succeed in the digital shift in the electrical industry. Digital integration offers increased productivity, efficiency, and safety, all of which impact the individual electrician and the entire organization.

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Trending in 2023!

While we are all progressing toward a greener future it is important to stay on top of these trends and continue learning.

You are now up to date on the latest and greatest electrical technology advances. Providing additional services can help you gain an edge over the competition and can increase revenue, too.