Côte d’Ivoire’s energy future: schneider electric introduces innovative grid technology

Global energy management and automation leader, Schneider Electric, has introduced its groundbreaking ‘AirSeT’ medium-voltage (MV) electrical switchgear range in Côte d’Ivoire. Unveiled on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, this innovative technology harnesses a unique blend of pure air and vacuum interruption, designed to propel the Ivorian electricity sector towards a sustainable environmental transition and align with evolving regulatory frameworks.

Recognized as the economic and energy nexus of francophone West Africa, Côte d’Ivoire is actively pursuing its ambition to emerge as the primary regional electricity hub, notably within the West African Power Pool (WAPP) framework. Achieving this pivotal role necessitates substantial investments in its medium-voltage distribution infrastructure, crucial for ensuring a robust and dependable power supply across the region.

Nicole Malan, Vice President of Business Power Systems and Infrastructure for Schneider Electric’s Sub-Saharan Africa cluster, underscored the continent’s distinct advantage. “Africa possesses an unparalleled opportunity to construct electrical infrastructures today that will remain relevant for the next three to four decades,” Malan stated. She emphasized that the AirSeT solution, integrating “pure air and sophisticated digitalization,” is engineered to meet both current international standards and the anticipated demands of future markets.

This strategic launch perfectly complements Côte d’Ivoire’s national development agenda, which targets an ambitious 45% renewable energy share in its electricity mix by 2030. The nation is currently experiencing a swift escalation in energy demand, largely driven by the rapid urbanization of Abidjan and the significant expansion of its agro-industrial sector, particularly in cocoa processing.

The new AirSeT equipment, according to Schneider Electric, has been meticulously engineered for seamless integration into existing grid networks. Its design eliminates the need for footprint modifications or extensive additional training for technicians, thereby enabling operators to proactively adapt to evolving international standards.