Load tap changer

A load tap changer includes a single mechanical switch that is movable to create, in a first position, a first conducting path between a first transformer tap and a load. When the switch is in a second position, the switch creates a second conducting path between a second transformer tap and the load. A first thyristor pair or other device creates a first alternate conducting path between the first transformer tap and the load when the switch is disengaged from the first position. A second thyristor pair or other device creates a second alternate conducting path between the second transformer tap and the load when the mechanical switch is disengaged from the second position. Each thyristor pair may be selectively triggered to provide a conducting path when voltage across either thyristor pair exceeds a predetermined level. A gate trigger circuit may be included for each thyristor pair, and a gate control circuit may control each of the gate trigger circuits.