Schneider gives datacenter switchgear the software-defined treatment
Equinix pilot promises faster deployment and over-the-air upgrades without downtime, provided the code behaves itself
Schneider Electric is testing software-defined medium voltage switchgear in partnership with Equinix, aiming to accelerate datacenter construction and enable electrical systems modifications without hardware changes. At the YOTTA 2026 event in Las Vegas, Schneider unveiled this new architecture along with other power products. Switchgear safeguards and regulates electricity flow within a facility, isolating malfunctioning components as needed.
Medium-voltage systems manage currents ranging from 1 kV to 36 kV, linking high-voltage grid connections to low-voltage server rack supplies. Instead of custom-built hardware for each site, Schneider's approach relies on standardized modules, with protection, automation, metering, monitoring, and control functions managed via software.
This standardization allows for mass production and configuration following delivery to the datacenter. Schneider claims over-the-air updates can introduce features and enhance performance without physical alterations or system downtime. The company's architecture is currently deployed in an Equinix colocation facility as part of a pilot.
The growing demand for AI-driven datacenters presents the challenge of building resilient, efficient, and scalable power infrastructure. Schneider argues that software-driven switchgear can standardize equipment across sites while adapting to evolving power needs. As demand for server farms reaches gigawatt-scale compute loads, medium-voltage distribution may need to extend to 13.8 kV or 34.5 kV, depending on the site.
Existing systems are often tailored to specific sites and require extensive testing before deployment, resulting in lengthy delays. Schneider claims this software-based approach can expedite ordering and manufacturing by up to three times and reduce commissioning and testing time by half compared to traditional methods. However, distributing protection and control functions through software raises cybersecurity concerns, necessitating robust authentication, testing, rollback, and disruption prevention mechanisms.
Equinix's Greg Metcalf noted that the technology can standardize the design, procurement, construction, and operation of switchgear while maintaining safety, quality, and reliability. Schneider plans to expand the architecture across its medium-voltage product line, including PremSet and AirSeT switchgear ranges, with pilots continuing until 2027 and broader availability slated for 2028.
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