Schneider Electric Builds the Foundation for Smart Grid Transformation with High-Reliability Distrib
Time:2026-06-10 Browse: 0
As the backbone of the new power system, electricity grids are undergoing profound changes on both the supply and demand sides. The large-scale integration of renewable energy, the rise of AI data centers, and the expansion of high-consumption markets such as electric vehicle charging infrastructure are driving the smart and digital transformation of the grid.
On June 5, at the 2026 (9th) New-Type Distribution System Technology Conference, Zhang Lei, Grid Industry Architect at Schneider Electric China’s Medium Voltage Business, delivered a keynote titled “Smart Grid Transformation with High-Reliability Distribution Equipment.” He highlighted the critical role of high-reliability distribution equipment in ensuring stable, data-driven grid operations and shared innovative practices in enabling the grid’s digital evolution.
High-Reliability Equipment: The Cornerstone of Smart Grid Transformation
Data has become the “lifeblood” driving optimization and continuous improvement across the grid. However, data can only provide real value if the sources are stable and trustworthy. High-reliability distribution equipment is therefore essential.
Zhang emphasized that a robust hardware foundation enables seamless integration of sensing, analysis, and decision-making across the grid. “With high-reliability distribution equipment, the entire operational process can transition from traditional experience-based approaches to data-driven intelligent management,” he explained. By accurately capturing multidimensional operational data through stable and precise sensors, the equipment supports advanced analytics, maintenance strategies, and iterative improvement, creating a continuous feedback loop for smart operations.
Innovative Medium-Voltage Practices Driving Smart Grid Evolution
Schneider Electric’s continuous innovation in medium- and low-voltage distribution and protection equipment forms the technical base for grid digitalization. Leveraging smart upgrades, the company has developed an integrated approach of “real-time sensing + efficient operations + AI empowerment.”
For example, the “Pre-Smart” switchgear embodies “digitally native” transformation. Equipped with diverse sensors, intelligent gateways, and active maintenance units, it provides real-time monitoring of operational parameters such as gas pressure, partial discharge, environmental temperature and humidity, mechanical characteristics, and embedded temperature measurements. These capabilities enable proactive maintenance and ensure operational reliability.
AI technologies are further enhancing medium-voltage protection. For challenging scenarios like low-current ground fault detection, Schneider Electric combines machine learning, big data analysis, and multidimensional modeling, achieving 100% accuracy in tests at KETOP, Liaoning Electric Power Institute, and Shaanxi Electric Power Institute. Similarly, the company’s Advanced Distribution Management System (ADMS), powered by AI, enables faster, smarter operations and equips operators with instant access to best practices, knowledge bases, and cross-verified data.
Safety enhancements extend to distribution network endpoints. To address electric shock risks in street lighting circuits, Schneider Electric introduced an “Enhanced Leakage Monitoring Protective Circuit Breaker + Smart Lighting Protector” solution, extending protection to the network’s “last mile” and enabling worry-free operations.
From the comprehensive sensing capabilities of “Pre-Smart” hardware, to AI-driven decision-making, and lifecycle safety monitoring, Schneider Electric’s approach demonstrates a clear and practical path: high-reliability equipment forms the foundation, trusted data acts as the driver, and AI innovation serves as the accelerator, effectively advancing smart grid transformation across vertical scenarios.
