Key Insights
The Asia-Pacific air-insulated switchgear market is experiencing robust growth, projected to reach $2.47 billion in 2025 and maintain a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7.20% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is driven by several key factors. Firstly, the region's rapid industrialization and urbanization are fueling significant demand for reliable and efficient power distribution systems. The increasing adoption of renewable energy sources, particularly solar and wind power, necessitates advanced switchgear solutions for effective grid integration. Furthermore, rising government investments in infrastructure development projects across countries like China, India, and Japan are creating substantial opportunities for market players. Stringent safety regulations and the need for improved power quality are further bolstering market growth. The market is segmented by voltage (low, medium, and high) and end-user (commercial, residential, and industrial), with the industrial sector currently dominating due to its higher energy consumption. Leading players like ABB, Toshiba, Eaton, Siemens, and Schneider Electric are actively competing through technological innovation and strategic partnerships to capture market share. Challenges include the high initial investment costs associated with switchgear installation and the potential for supply chain disruptions. However, the long-term growth prospects remain highly positive, fueled by sustained economic development and the ongoing electrification of various sectors across the Asia-Pacific region.
The competitive landscape is characterized by the presence of both global giants and regional players. Established multinational companies leverage their extensive distribution networks and technological expertise to maintain a strong foothold. However, local manufacturers are increasingly gaining traction by offering customized solutions tailored to specific regional requirements and often at more competitive prices. Future growth will be influenced by advancements in smart grid technologies, the increasing integration of digital solutions for improved monitoring and control, and the adoption of environmentally friendly manufacturing processes. The focus on enhancing grid resilience and reliability in the face of extreme weather events will also play a significant role in shaping market dynamics in the coming years. Growth will be particularly strong in emerging economies like India and Southeast Asia due to their rapidly expanding power infrastructure needs.

Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of the Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear market, encompassing market dynamics, growth trends, regional segmentation, product landscape, key players, and future outlook. The study covers the period from 2019 to 2033, with a base year of 2025 and a forecast period from 2025 to 2033. The market is segmented by voltage (Low-Voltage, Medium-Voltage, High-Voltage) and end-user (Commercial, Residential, Industrial). This report is an essential resource for industry professionals, investors, and strategic decision-makers seeking a thorough understanding of this rapidly evolving market. The market size is predicted to reach xx Million units by 2033.
Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Dynamics & Structure
The Asia-Pacific air-insulated switchgear market is characterized by a moderately concentrated structure, with key players such as ABB Ltd, Toshiba Corporation, Eaton Corporation PLC, Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, Siemens AG, Schneider Electric SE, Larson & Turbo Limited, and General Electric Company holding significant market shares. The market is driven by technological innovation, particularly in the development of more efficient and reliable switchgear solutions. Stringent regulatory frameworks focused on grid modernization and safety standards are also influencing market growth. The increasing demand for electricity in rapidly developing economies within the region is fueling market expansion. The market witnesses considerable M&A activity, with an estimated xx number of deals in the past five years, primarily driven by companies seeking to expand their geographic reach and product portfolios.
- Market Concentration: Moderately concentrated, with top 10 players holding approximately xx% market share.
- Technological Innovation: Focus on improving efficiency, reliability, and smart grid integration.
- Regulatory Framework: Stringent safety and grid modernization standards driving adoption.
- Competitive Substitutes: Gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) presents a key competitive alternative.
- End-User Demographics: Industrial sector dominates, followed by commercial and residential sectors.
- M&A Trends: xx M&A deals over the past 5 years, driven by expansion and diversification strategies. Innovation barriers include high R&D costs and the need for rigorous testing and certification.
Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Growth Trends & Insights
The Asia-Pacific air-insulated switchgear market has witnessed substantial growth over the historical period (2019-2024), exhibiting a CAGR of xx%. This growth is projected to continue during the forecast period (2025-2033), with a projected CAGR of xx%, driven by factors such as increasing investments in renewable energy infrastructure, rapid urbanization, and industrialization across the region. Market penetration is currently at xx%, with significant growth potential in less developed regions. Technological disruptions, such as the integration of smart technologies and digitalization, are transforming the industry, leading to improved monitoring and control capabilities. Shifts in consumer behavior, including a preference for energy-efficient and sustainable solutions, are also influencing market trends. The market size is expected to reach xx Million units by 2033.

Dominant Regions, Countries, or Segments in Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market
India and China are the dominant markets within the Asia-Pacific region, driven by robust infrastructure development and increasing electricity demand. The industrial sector represents the largest end-user segment, followed by the commercial sector. Within the voltage segments, medium-voltage switchgear holds the largest market share currently, followed by high-voltage and low-voltage segments.
- Key Drivers in India and China:
- Rapid industrialization and urbanization.
- Significant investments in renewable energy projects.
- Government initiatives promoting grid modernization.
- Dominance Factors: High electricity demand, extensive infrastructure projects, and supportive government policies.
- Growth Potential: Untapped market potential exists in Southeast Asia and other emerging economies.
Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Product Landscape
The air-insulated switchgear market offers a range of products designed to meet diverse voltage and application requirements. Recent innovations focus on enhancing reliability, reducing maintenance needs, and integrating smart technologies for remote monitoring and control. Key features driving product differentiation include improved insulation materials, compact designs, and advanced safety mechanisms. The switchgear's performance is measured by its ability to withstand high currents, voltage levels, and environmental conditions. Unique selling propositions include increased operational efficiency, reduced downtime, and improved safety features.
Key Drivers, Barriers & Challenges in Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market
Key Drivers:
- Rising electricity demand fueled by industrialization and urbanization.
- Government initiatives promoting grid modernization and renewable energy integration.
- Growing investments in transmission and distribution infrastructure.
Key Challenges and Restraints:
- High initial investment costs associated with installing air-insulated switchgear.
- Potential supply chain disruptions due to geopolitical factors and raw material price fluctuations.
- Intense competition from other switchgear technologies, such as GIS. This competition has resulted in a xx% decrease in market share for AIS compared to GIS in the past 3 years.
Emerging Opportunities in Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market
- Smart Grid Integration: Growing demand for intelligent switchgear solutions with remote monitoring and control capabilities.
- Renewable Energy Integration: Opportunities in integrating air-insulated switchgear with renewable energy sources like solar and wind power.
- Expansion into Untapped Markets: Significant growth potential in Southeast Asia and other emerging economies.
Growth Accelerators in the Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Industry
Technological advancements, strategic partnerships, and expansion into new markets are key growth accelerators. The development of more efficient and compact designs, along with the integration of advanced monitoring and control systems, is driving market growth. Strategic collaborations between manufacturers and utilities are facilitating the adoption of innovative solutions. Expansion into untapped markets within the Asia-Pacific region offers significant growth potential.
Key Players Shaping the Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Market
- ABB Ltd
- Toshiba Corporation
- Eaton Corporation PLC
- Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited
- Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
- Siemens AG
- Schneider Electric SE
- Larson & Turbo Limited
- General Electric Company
Notable Milestones in Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Sector
- March 2023: Larsen & Turbo secured an order to establish 765kV gas-insulated and air-insulated substation bays in Andhra Pradesh, India, supporting large-scale renewable energy projects. This indicates a significant investment in AIS for renewable energy infrastructure.
- April 2022: General Electric's Grid Solutions won a contract to build substations for ReNew Power's Koppal-Narendra transmission project in Karnataka, India, including a 400/220KV air-insulated substation. This highlights the ongoing demand for AIS in major transmission projects.
In-Depth Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Market Outlook
The Asia-Pacific air-insulated switchgear market is poised for significant growth over the next decade, driven by continued infrastructure development, increasing electricity demand, and the adoption of smart grid technologies. Strategic partnerships, technological innovations, and expansion into new markets present lucrative opportunities for industry players. The market's future hinges on effectively addressing challenges related to cost, competition, and supply chain resilience.
Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Segmentation
-
1. Voltage
- 1.1. Low-Voltage
- 1.2. Medium-Voltage
- 1.3. High-Voltage
-
2. End User
- 2.1. Commercial
- 2.2. Residential
- 2.3. Industrial
-
3. Geography
- 3.1. China
- 3.2. India
- 3.3. Japan
- 3.4. Rest of Asia Pacific
Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. China
- 2. India
- 3. Japan
- 4. Rest of Asia Pacific

Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
Aspects | Details |
---|---|
Study Period | 2019-2033 |
Base Year | 2024 |
Estimated Year | 2025 |
Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
Growth Rate | CAGR of 7.20% from 2019-2033 |
Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.2.1. 4.; Increasing Electricity Generation and Consumption4.; Integration of Renewables into the Grid
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. 4.; Stringent Environmental and Safety Regulations
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Growing Focus on Infrastructure and Renewable Energy Sources Drives the Market Growth
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Voltage
- 5.1.1. Low-Voltage
- 5.1.2. Medium-Voltage
- 5.1.3. High-Voltage
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 5.2.1. Commercial
- 5.2.2. Residential
- 5.2.3. Industrial
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 5.3.1. China
- 5.3.2. India
- 5.3.3. Japan
- 5.3.4. Rest of Asia Pacific
- 5.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.4.1. China
- 5.4.2. India
- 5.4.3. Japan
- 5.4.4. Rest of Asia Pacific
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Voltage
- 6. China Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Voltage
- 6.1.1. Low-Voltage
- 6.1.2. Medium-Voltage
- 6.1.3. High-Voltage
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 6.2.1. Commercial
- 6.2.2. Residential
- 6.2.3. Industrial
- 6.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 6.3.1. China
- 6.3.2. India
- 6.3.3. Japan
- 6.3.4. Rest of Asia Pacific
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Voltage
- 7. India Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Voltage
- 7.1.1. Low-Voltage
- 7.1.2. Medium-Voltage
- 7.1.3. High-Voltage
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 7.2.1. Commercial
- 7.2.2. Residential
- 7.2.3. Industrial
- 7.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 7.3.1. China
- 7.3.2. India
- 7.3.3. Japan
- 7.3.4. Rest of Asia Pacific
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Voltage
- 8. Japan Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Voltage
- 8.1.1. Low-Voltage
- 8.1.2. Medium-Voltage
- 8.1.3. High-Voltage
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 8.2.1. Commercial
- 8.2.2. Residential
- 8.2.3. Industrial
- 8.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 8.3.1. China
- 8.3.2. India
- 8.3.3. Japan
- 8.3.4. Rest of Asia Pacific
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Voltage
- 9. Rest of Asia Pacific Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Voltage
- 9.1.1. Low-Voltage
- 9.1.2. Medium-Voltage
- 9.1.3. High-Voltage
- 9.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 9.2.1. Commercial
- 9.2.2. Residential
- 9.2.3. Industrial
- 9.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 9.3.1. China
- 9.3.2. India
- 9.3.3. Japan
- 9.3.4. Rest of Asia Pacific
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Voltage
- 10. China Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11. Japan Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12. India Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13. South Korea Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 14. Taiwan Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 15. Australia Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 16. Rest of Asia-Pacific Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 17. Competitive Analysis
- 17.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 17.2. Company Profiles
- 17.2.1 ABB Ltd
- 17.2.1.1. Overview
- 17.2.1.2. Products
- 17.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.2 Toshiba Corporation
- 17.2.2.1. Overview
- 17.2.2.2. Products
- 17.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.3 Eaton Corporation PLC*List Not Exhaustive
- 17.2.3.1. Overview
- 17.2.3.2. Products
- 17.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.4 Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited
- 17.2.4.1. Overview
- 17.2.4.2. Products
- 17.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.5 Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
- 17.2.5.1. Overview
- 17.2.5.2. Products
- 17.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.6 Siemens AG
- 17.2.6.1. Overview
- 17.2.6.2. Products
- 17.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.7 Schneider Electric SE
- 17.2.7.1. Overview
- 17.2.7.2. Products
- 17.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.8 Larson & Turbo Limited
- 17.2.8.1. Overview
- 17.2.8.2. Products
- 17.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.9 General Electric Company
- 17.2.9.1. Overview
- 17.2.9.2. Products
- 17.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.1 ABB Ltd
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Voltage 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: China Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Japan Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: India Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: South Korea Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Taiwan Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Australia Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Rest of Asia-Pacific Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Voltage 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Voltage 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Voltage 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Voltage 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 7.20%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market?
Key companies in the market include ABB Ltd, Toshiba Corporation, Eaton Corporation PLC*List Not Exhaustive, Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, Siemens AG, Schneider Electric SE, Larson & Turbo Limited, General Electric Company.
3. What are the main segments of the Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market?
The market segments include Voltage, End User, Geography.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD 2.47 Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
4.; Increasing Electricity Generation and Consumption4.; Integration of Renewables into the Grid.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Growing Focus on Infrastructure and Renewable Energy Sources Drives the Market Growth.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
4.; Stringent Environmental and Safety Regulations.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
March 2023, Larsen & Turbo business won an order to establish 765kV gas-insulated and air-insulated substation bays at the pooling and remote end substations in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh, India, where gigawatts of solar and wind energy generation projects are being developed.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 4750, USD 5250, and USD 8750 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Asia-Pacific Air-Insulated Switchgear Market, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database



Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence