Schneider Electric unveils software-defined MV switchgear

Author: Joe Peck

Global energy technology company Schneider Electric has unveiled what it describes as the world’s first fully software-defined medium-voltage (MV) switchgear, designed to change how electrical distribution systems are deployed and operated for AI factories and other applications.

Announced at YOTTA 2026 in Las Vegas, USA, the equipment forms part of Schneider Electric’s Software Defined Energy approach, which separates system intelligence from hardware and uses software to add functionality and performance updates.

Traditional MV systems often rely on engineered-to-order designs, which can result in longer lead times and complex procurement. Schneider Electric’s software-defined approach uses standardised hardware platforms and over-the-air software updates, allowing functionality to be changed without physical modifications.

The company says the modular architecture can reduce system complexity, with less wiring and fewer components. Based on Schneider Electric’s studies and estimates, the approach can deliver up to three times faster ordering and manufacturing, whilst digital commissioning processes can enable up to twice as fast commissioning and on-site acceptance testing.

Software-defined approach to medium-voltage equipment

The equipment includes connectivity and analytics for real-time system monitoring, alongside AI-powered predictive maintenance through EcoCare Services. Schneider Electric says this can provide greater visibility into system performance and help reduce unplanned downtime.

Melton Chang, Executive Vice President, Power Systems Division at Schneider Electric, notes, “Data centres are being asked to build faster than traditional power infrastructure can move.

“With Software Defined MV switchgear, we are bringing the logic of software to medium-voltage equipment so customers can deploy in a fraction of the time, standardise across regions, and add new capabilities with zero downtime.”

The equipment has already been deployed through a pilot with Equinix in a live colocation data centre environment.

Greg Metcalf, Senior Director, Global Data Center Design and Innovation at Equinix, comments, “Software Defined MV Equipment transform the way we design, procure, build, and operate MV switchgear, allowing increased standardisation for multiple use cases whilst maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, and reliability.

“We look forward to deepening our collaboration with Schneider Electric as we continue to innovate and scale for the future.”

Schneider Electric plans to extend the software-defined MV architecture across its medium-voltage portfolio and, progressively, other parts of the powertrain. Pilot programmes are expected to continue through 2027, with broader availability planned from 2028.

The company says the approach is intended to support faster project execution, greater operational visibility, and lifecycle-based service models for electrical infrastructure.