You can't simply say "X years of experience = an electrical engineering degree." The value of experience depends heavily on:
* Type of work: Experience designing complex power systems is vastly different from and more valuable than, say, basic electrical wiring in a residential setting.
* Responsibility level: Leading a project and managing a team is much more significant than simply following instructions.
* Industry recognition: Experience at a reputable company or on significant projects carries more weight.
Some employers might consider significant and relevant experience (perhaps 10+ years in a highly specialized and demanding role) *in lieu of* a degree in certain circumstances, *but this is rare and highly dependent on the specific job and employer*. Even then, the experience needs to demonstrably prove the applicant possesses the knowledge and skills typically gained through a formal education.
In short, they are not interchangeable. A degree provides a baseline, while substantial, relevant experience might *sometimes* be a partial substitute in very limited contexts, but it's not a fair or accurate equivalent.