How Technology Is Changing Relay Testing | Niclas Wetterstrand, Megger

Offline testing is not disappearing. Online sensors can flag drift, but only offline testing can prove a protection circuit will operate when the grid needs it. Chris Gerber interviews Niclas Wetterstrand, Global Industry Director for Utilities Power Protection at Megger, at CIGRE Paris 2026. As renewables, new lines and fast grid expansion reshape the network, utilities face pressure to build quickly while keeping every protection function reliable and stable. This conversation explains where online monitoring stops and offline testing takes over. Key topics covered:

• Online monitoring gives continuous insight, but offline testing delivers the deeper analysis needed when an asset looks suspicious.
• Stable grids depend on commissioning and lifecycle testing that proves relays, breakers and instrument transformers still meet specification.
• Megger’s one stop shop approach covers the full protection circuit, from 66 primary injection testing to relay and breaker testing.
• Digital twins for relays and relay testers let engineers test protection functions without having assets or a site available.
• Net zero and electrification create growth and risk, with collaboration as the key to building fast while staying reliable.

In this video:

Niclas Wetterstrand – Global Industry Director for Utilities Power Protection