Equinix and Schneider Electric have partnered to pilot software-defined medium-voltage switchgear at an undisclosed Equinix data center. The technology, developed by Schneider Electric, is designed to reduce the need for specialized cabling and hardware in data centers. Schneider said the software-defined switchgear separates system intelligence from physical hardware, allowing electrical infrastructure to adapt more quickly to evolving AI and digital workloads.
The technology uses standardized modular hardware and software to speed deployment and allow upgrades without physical changes. Schneider said it cuts control wiring by 87 percent, terminals by 91 percent, and copper use by 85 percent, while improving digital connectivity and analytics.
“The challenge facing data center operators today is not just keeping pace with AI growth, but building the resilient, efficient and scalable power infrastructure needed for an increasingly digital world,” said Frédéric Godemel, executive vice president for energy management at Schneider Electric.
“Schneider Electric’s software-defined medium voltage architecture brings a new level of flexibility, standardization, and energy intelligence to electrical distribution, helping customers scale their operations more efficiently while preparing for future requirements. By combining software, connectivity, and sustainable innovation, we are enabling the next generation of resilient and efficient data centers.”
