According to a Schneider Electric representative, the power supply system plays a vital role in the production, transmission, and distribution of electricity, from power plants through substations to individual factories, buildings, and data centers. For the system to operate stably, medium voltage switchgear must continuously coordinate, switch, and protect the electrical current.
For decades, electricity systems operated on a centralized model, with power transmitted from large plants to consumers. When power generation was stable and load fluctuations minimal, the primary task of medium voltage switchgear was to switch, isolate faults, and facilitate maintenance. However, this operational approach is changing.
"In Vietnam, the growth of renewable energy is gradually transforming the traditional operating model," stated a Schneider Electric representative. Instead of distribution from centralized plants, the grid must now accommodate numerous distributed sources, demanding more flexible coordination capabilities.
Furthermore, ongoing urbanization and industrialization have created new pressures on electrical infrastructure. The increasing number of data centers, manufacturing plants, industrial zones, and electric vehicle charging infrastructure has led to a rapid and more volatile increase in electricity demand.
In this context, electricity systems must not only meet growing load demands but also ensure reliability, smart monitoring capabilities, and continuous 24/7 operation for economic activities, production, and services.
These changes indicate that electrification, integrated with automation and digital technology, will progressively shape the new generation grid. A Schneider Electric representative explained that in this model, the role of medium voltage switchgear expands from mere switching and protection devices to platforms that provide data, support automation, and optimize system operation.
 |
The MCSeT medium voltage switchgear combined with EvoPacT circuit breaker launched in the Vietnamese market in 9/2025. Photo: Nguyen Duong
In modern power distribution systems, medium voltage switchgear is ubiquitous, found in primary substations, such as switching stations, specialized industrial plants, and critical infrastructure, as well as in secondary substations located in industrial zones, urban areas, commercial buildings, and kiosk substations. However, amid the energy transition, this equipment is being assigned a new role.
"Previously, medium voltage switchgear primarily performed switching and protection functions for the electrical system, but today they are increasingly becoming an integral part of a smarter, more resilient electrical infrastructure," a Schneider Electric representative clarified.
From a digitalization perspective, solutions like the MCSeT medium voltage switchgear combined with the EvoPacT circuit breaker demonstrate the trend of integrating technology from the design phase. The system is equipped with internet of things sensors and connects to the EcoStruxure platform, enabling the collection, storage, and analysis of operational data. This provides businesses with a stronger foundation to evaluate equipment performance and optimize asset management.
Beyond data utilization, this solution also aims to enhance the reliability of the electrical system, particularly in an environment of increasingly demanding operational requirements. Early detection of anomalies and support for predictive maintenance help reduce the risk of unplanned outages, ensuring 24/7 continuity for both production activities and operational infrastructure.
 |
The RM AirSeT medium voltage switchgear does not use SF6 gas, applying clean air insulation technology. Photo: Schneider Electric
Meanwhile, in secondary substations, the RM AirSeT medium voltage switchgear reflects the power industry's sustainable development goals. This solution utilizes clean air insulation technology combined with vacuum switching, replacing SF6 gas, a greenhouse gas with a significant environmental impact.
In addition to contributing to emission reduction, the equipment boasts a lifespan of up to 40 years, supports convenient upgrades on existing infrastructure, and approximately 93% of its raw materials are recyclable. This aligns with the environmental, social, and governance goals and circular economy objectives of many businesses.
"The MCSeT medium voltage switchgear combined with the EvoPacT circuit breaker and the RM AirSeT solution emerged as electrical infrastructure shifts towards digitalization, enhanced operational reliability, and reduced emissions. These three pillars are also shaping the future of the modern grid," the Schneider Electric representative added.
Dong Ve
