Summary of Key Points from the Expert Call on High Voltage Power Equipment Industry Overview - **Industry**: High Voltage Power Equipment - **Key Drivers**: Demand driven by renewable energy installations, data centers, and potential growth in transmission capital expenditures (capex) Core Insights 1. **Price Increases**: - Price hikes for high voltage power equipment have accelerated, with certain types experiencing over 10% year-over-year increases since June 2025, attributed to tariffs and rising demand from renewables [2][4][5] - General price increases were noted at 3-5% in the first half of 2025, with transformers seeing the largest hikes [4][5] 2. **Strong Demand**: - Demand for high voltage power equipment remains robust year-to-date (YTD), primarily driven by new connections for renewable energy projects, accounting for over 70% of total demand [2][5] - The expert anticipates continued strong demand through 2026/27 due to the push for renewable energy and data center installations [2][5] 3. **Future Demand Dynamics**: - While demand from renewables may plateau, it is expected that new connections for gas-fired and nuclear power plants, along with data centers, will fill the gap [5][6] - The replacement cycle for existing equipment is expected to gain momentum in the coming years, although currently, replacement demand is less than 30% [2][5] 4. **Transmission Capex Growth**: - A forecasted 10% growth in transmission capex for 2025, with potential for stronger growth in subsequent years, contingent on resolving permitting issues [6] - The expert highlighted that regulatory hurdles remain a significant barrier to long-distance transmission network growth [6] 5. **Trade Tariff Impact**: - The impact of trade tariffs on pricing is seen as limited, with operators willing to pay higher prices to secure essential equipment for grid connections [6] - Equipment manufacturers are adjusting prices or negotiating with customers to pass on increased costs due to tariffs [6] 6. **Supply Constraints**: - There has been no noticeable increase in supply for high voltage power equipment YTD, particularly for transformers, primarily due to a lack of skilled labor [6] - Local manufacturers face challenges in ramping up capacity, and there is reluctance among regulated utilities to procure from Chinese manufacturers due to national security concerns [6] Additional Insights - **Market Sentiment**: The expert's views align with a bullish outlook on the demand/supply imbalance for high voltage power equipment in the US, supporting the positive ratings on companies like Hyundai Electric, Hyosung Heavy, and Sieyuan Electric [2][4] - **Long-term Trends**: The expert noted that lead times for high voltage equipment remain extended, indicating ongoing supply chain challenges [5] Conclusion - The high voltage power equipment industry is poised for growth driven by renewable energy and data center demands, despite challenges in supply and regulatory hurdles. The pricing environment is influenced by tariffs, but demand remains strong, suggesting a favorable outlook for key players in the market.