HD Hyundai Electric Paves Way for Expansion in North America's Circuit Breaker Market

On October 14, 2025, HD Hyundai Electric made a significant announcement regarding its plans to expand operations in the North American market for low- and medium-voltage circuit breakers. The company secured UL (Underwriters Laboratories) and cUL (Canadian UL) certifications for four models: air circuit breakers (ACB), molded case circuit breakers (MCCB), vacuum circuit breakers (VCB), and magnetic contactors (MC). Obtaining these certifications validates the safety and reliability of these electrical components, which is vital for competing in the demanding North American electrical market.

UL certification is a prestigious mark of safety that signifies rigorous testing and compliance with strict industry standards. Although not strictly required by law, in practical terms, UL and cUL certifications are essential for electrical products sold in North America, especially for those with potential safety hazards. This is especially pertinent for low- and medium-voltage circuit breakers, which play a crucial role in the power distribution systems that connect power generation plants to consumers. These components ensure continuous power supply and guard against possible short circuits or overloads, making them indispensable in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.

The low- and medium-voltage circuit breaker market is witnessing remarkable growth, with projections indicating it could rise from USD 12.2 billion in 2024 to approximately USD 29.2 billion by 2034, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.8%. This surge emphasizes the increasing demand for more sophisticated electrical safety solutions as modernization and infrastructure development continue across regions.

An official from HD Hyundai Electric commented, "With the acquisition of UL certification, we aim to broaden our footprint from high-voltage transformers—where we already lead the market—into the expanding arena of low- and medium-voltage circuit breakers. This strategic move will not only enhance our product offering but also solidify our commitment to safety and reliability in electrical distribution equipment."

To further bolster its capabilities in this sector, HD Hyundai Electric is in the process of constructing a state-of-the-art manufacturing plant situated in Cheongju, Korea. Scheduled for completion by the end of this year, the facility will incorporate cutting-edge smart factory technologies aimed at maximizing production efficiency. This plant is anticipated to double the company's annual output of low- and medium-voltage circuit breakers, reaching around 13 million units.

In essence, HD Hyundai Electric's proactive steps to gain UL certification and expand its production capacity illustrate its dedication to meeting the burgeoning needs of the North American circuit breaker market. As energy distribution becomes increasingly complex and critical, the company's efforts to enhance product safety and availability position it well for future success. The future looks bright for HD Hyundai Electric as it continues to innovate and lead in the electrical solutions space, ensuring the reliability of power distribution systems for countless users across North America.