Schneider Electric launches MCSeT in the UK, supporting smarter power distribution

Schneider Electric has launched its latest product in power distribution, MCSeT, in the UK.

This new piece of equipment is a next-generation medium-voltage switchgear solution, designed for safe, energy-efficient, and future-ready power distribution in industrial, commercial, and utility applications. 

In the UK, the need for a more resilient and efficient power distribution system is becoming increasingly urgent. 

The country is using more and more electricity each year, driven by a rising demand and an accelerated electrification across industry and transport – all of which is creating growing pressure on ageing network infrastructure. 

As the energy system adapts to support net zero ambitions, distributed generation, and more variable demand, distribution networks must be modernised to operate more reliably, flexibly, and intelligently. 

Distribution infrastructure must also incorporate digital capabilities that enhance connectivity, asset visibility, and real-time system management, enabling operators to respond faster to changing conditions and maintain reliability as networks become more complex. 

The new MCSeT stands out with its advanced features, including: 

·        Extended circuit breaker life: MCSeT is powered by the new EvoPacT HVX circuit breaker, engineered to deliver a significantly extended service life for medium-voltage applications. 

        EvoPacT HVX sets a new benchmark for longevity, supporting up to 50,000 mechanical and electrical operations at 12/17.5kV, and 30,000 operations at 24kV. 

        This goes alongside up to 50 short-circuit breaking operations at normal rated current. Designed using decades of engineering expertise and supported by advanced condition monitoring, it reduces the need for breaker replacement and lowers overall maintenance requirements compared with previous VCB technologies

·        More uptime through data-driven maintenance: 
        From day one, MCSeT enables a data-driven maintenance approach. IoT-connected sensors continuously monitor component health and abnormal conditions, detecting up to 63 per cent of potential downtime scenarios. 

        Integrated with Schneider Electric’s digital software and EcoCare services, the system provides alerts and expert recommendations to support predictive maintenance, helping eliminate unplanned outages and reduce maintenance costs by up to 40 per cent

·        Reduced operational risk: 
        Connectivity and real-time data help operators minimise risk exposure and respond faster to changing conditions. MCSeT enables early warnings before issues escalate and allows key operations, including circuit breaker open/close, racking and earthing switches, to be performed digitally via HMI or mobile app. 

        This reduces the need for work on live equipment and helps keep operators outside the arc-flash zone, improving safety and operational confidence. 

David Pownall, Vice President of Power Systems, Schneider Electric UK&I, said: “The transformation of power systems depends on solutions that are not only innovative, but practical, scalable, and ready to deploy today.

“The launch of MCSeT in the UK reflects our commitment to supporting the modernisation of the UK’s distribution infrastructure through smart, safe, and digitally connected technologies. 

“As energy demand grows and networks become more complex, customers need greater visibility, resilience, and operational confidence.

“By combining advanced digital capabilities with a more sustainable, future-ready design, MCSeT helps operators improve safety, reduce downtime, and prepare their infrastructure for a more resilient and low-carbon energy system.” 

A continued commitment to sustainability 
The new MCSeT is part of Schneider Electric's overall strategy to promote sustainable solutions and support the energy transition.

Featuring an optimised design that uses 20 per cent less raw materials, the MCSeT also incorporates a high-rated circuit breaker, eliminating the need for SF6 greenhouse gases.

Furthermore, the EvoPacT HVX circuit breaker lasts significantly longer than predecessors, reducing the need for costly maintenance, replacement and downtime.

These innovations reflect Schneider Electric's commitment to reducing its environmental impact.

In 2025, Schneider Electric was recognised by TIME and Statista as the World's Most Sustainable Company, underscoring its ambitious goals to reduce emissions and help customers become more energy efficient. 

The new MCSeT is set to roll out with 12, 17.5 and 24kV variants, each featuring natively integrated sensors and connectivity. 

For more information about the MCSeT, please visit Schneider's website

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