MR. RAJESH JAYACHANDRAN
Q.Could you share with us the vision behind the new chapter of LS Electric, aiming to bring light to every corner of the world?
At LS Electric, our vision is to empower industries and communities worldwide with smart, sustainable, and future-ready electrical solutions. We believe that energy is the foundation of progress, and our mission is to bring innovation to every corner of the world through advanced power management, automation, and smart grid solutions. As the energy landscape shifts towards renewable and intelligent systems, LS Electric is at the forefront of this transformation, ensuring safe, efficient, and eco-friendly power solutions for a brighter and more sustainable future.
Q.How has 2024 been for the Smart Automation and Smart Power Solutions market segments?
What are the key challenges currently facing these sectors in India? In 2024, the Smart Automation and Smart Power Solutions sectors in India experienced significant growth, driven by rapid technological advancements and increased demand for operational efficiency. The India Industrial Automation market was valued at US$14.18 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach US$39.65 billion by 2033, reflecting a CAGR of 12.10% from 2025 to 2033.
Key Challenges:
High Implementation Costs: Small and Mediumsized Enterprises (SMEs), which constitute a significant portion of India’s industrial landscape, often find it challenging to invest in expensive automation technologies. Skilled Workforce Shortage: There is a notable gap in the availability of skilled professionals adept in advanced automation and smart power technologies, hindering optimal utilization. Infrastructure Limitations: Inadequate infrastructure, especially in rural and semi-urban areas, poses challenges for the deployment of smart power solutions. Regulatory Hurdles: Complex regulatory frameworks and compliance requirements can delay project implementations and increase operational costs. Addressing these challenges necessitates collaborative efforts between industry stakeholders and the government to foster investment, enhance skill development, and streamline regulatory processes, thereby ensuring sustainable growth in India’s Smart Automation and Smart Power sectors
Q.Which segment is the most profitable within your business portfolio?
How do you see the automation and energy markets evolving, and do you have any plans to diversify into new areas? In 2024, LS Electric achieved a record operating profit of 109.6 billion won in the second quarter, marking its highest quarterly performance to date.
Profitability Across Segments:
• Electric Infra: This segment demonstrated remarkable growth, particularly in the U.S. market, contributing significantly to the company’s overall performance.
• Automation: Despite a general recession impacting the sector, LS Electric’s Automation segment maintained a stable performance, focusing on high-end markets such as battery and logistics.
Market Evolution and Diversification Plans:
The automation and energy markets are rapidly evolving, driven by technological advancements and a global shift towards sustainable solutions. LS Electric recognizes the increasing demand for smart, efficient, and eco-friendly energy systems To stay ahead in this dynamic landscape, LS Electric is committed to diversifying its portfolio. The company plans to expand into emerging areas such as renewable energy integration, smart grid technologies, and advanced automation solutions tailored for various industries. By leveraging its expertise and investing in innovation, LS Electric aims to lead the paradigm shift in the new energy era, ensuring sustainable growth and enriching human life
Q.R&D is crucial to any brand’s success. Could you provide insights into LS Electric’s R&D department and its role in the company’s innovation?
LS Electric have been concentrating resources on R&D in order to proactively respond to rapidlyevolving digital transformations and provide leadership in the smart energy and factory markets. In pursuit of this objective, we have established a system designed to enhance R&D productivity, thereby maximizing business performance and operational efficiency. LS ELECTRIC acknowledges that R&D is a critical driver of corporate competitiveness. In alignment with this understanding, the company has consistently increased its annual R&D investments to secure a sustainable competitive advantage and strategically position itself for future growth. Approximately 6% of our sales revenue is allocated to R&D initiatives, focused on the development of next-generation products, exploration of new business opportunities, and advancement of core technologies. We had major achievements viz. Development of eco-friendly 170kV 50kA GIS, Development of MMC-type STATCOM, Development of APS (Arc Protection System), Development of RAPIEnet+, an all-in-one industrial Ethernet solution, Process improvement using digital technology.
Q.What factors give LS Electric a competitive edge in the Smart Railway Solutions space?
LS ELECTRIC is offering total solutions related to production, installation, test drive, and repair and maintenance through cutting-edge control facilities that are required for safe operation and efficiency of trains. As the most experienced leader in the railway systems, our technological prowess is recognized in the global market. From High Speed Rail to automatically operated LRT, LS ELECTRIC provides the most appropriate signaling solutions for each site environment. LS ELECTRIC realizes the better and improved operation of railway infrastructures with system enhanced through investment in R&D of next-generation signaling system, field test, and RAMS certification. LS ELECTRIC, which has the best experience in the railway industry, has improved safety and reliability based on accumulated electrical, electronic, and information technology. We provide integrated power solutions by establishing a complete system from ultra-high voltage to power distribution in the area of railway power transmission.
Q.How does LS Electric integrate sustainability practices into its operations and product offerings?
LS Electric approach combines technological innovation, energy efficiency, and environmentally conscious design to reduce their environmental footprint and promote sustainable development across industries. LS ELECTRIC’s Cheongju plant has adopted many technologies that form the backbone of a smart factory: IoT-based automated system for the changing equipment model that is capable of mass production of multiple product types; selfdriving robots that handle inventory; AI-based real-time automatic welding system; and machine learning-based noise vibration test system. The plant also uses Big Data analysis service to share raw material data, production data, and quality data in real time with suppliers. Owing the alignment to the sustainable practices LS ELECTRIC has been selected in 2021 as a “World Lighthouse Factory” that could lead the future of global manufacturing industries beyond South Korea. It was the second South Korean company to be selected for this honor after POSCO in 2019.
Q.What is the primary goal behind LS Electric’s participation in Elecrama 2025, and what are your key expectations from this significant event?
ELECRAMA has always been a strategic platform for LS Electric in terms of extending their network, establishing partnership, Product showcasing, market expansion or brand positioning. ELECRAMA 2025 is likely centered around displaying their innovative technologies and solutions in the electrical sectors. As one of the leading players in the industry, our goals includes product display and demonstrating the latest products and solutions. Engaging with industry leaders, suppliers, and potential partners to build relationships that can lead to new business opportunities, joint ventures, or collaborations. Also ELECRAMA is an ideal platform for reaching new markets, especially in the rapidly growing sectors of renewable energy and smart infrastructure. LS Electric shall reinforce their brand as an industry innovator and thought leader, as well as showcasing their global presence and commitment to sustainable and efficient solutions. Key expectations from ELECRAMA 2025 would likely include get insights into the latest trends and exposure to new technologies. Understanding shifts in market demand, regulations, and upcoming technologies in the electrical and energy sectors. Finding potential partners or customers that align with our business objectives
