Global leader in energy management and automation, Schneider Electric, announced on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, the deployment of its new medium voltage (MV) electrical switchgear range, “AirSeT,” in Côte d’Ivoire. This groundbreaking technology, which masterfully combines pure air with vacuum interruption, is set to drive the environmental transition and align with the evolving regulatory landscape of the Ivorian electricity sector.
Recognized as the economic and energy nucleus of Francophone West Africa, Côte d’Ivoire is actively pursuing its ambition to become the regional electricity pivot, particularly within the framework of the West African Power Pool (WAPP/EEEOA). Achieving this vision necessitates substantial investments in medium voltage distribution infrastructure to guarantee an unwavering and reliable power supply.
Nicole Malan, Vice President of Business Power Systems and Infrastructure for Schneider Electric’s Sub-Saharan Africa cluster, highlighted Africa’s unique chance. “Africa has an exceptional opportunity: to construct electrical infrastructures today that will remain relevant for the next 30 to 40 years,” she stated. According to Malan, this solution, which marries “pure air with advanced digitalization,” not only meets current international standards but also anticipates the future demands of various markets.
This strategic introduction supports Côte d’Ivoire’s broader development strategy, which includes an ambitious target of achieving a 45% renewable energy share in its electricity mix by 2030. The nation faces a rapidly escalating demand for power, fueled by the accelerating urbanization of Abidjan and the robust expansion of its agro-industry, especially in cocoa processing.
The company confirmed that these advanced new units are engineered for seamless integration directly into the existing network. They require no spatial modifications or additional training for technicians, thereby enabling operators to proactively adapt to upcoming international norms and standards.
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