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Digital infrastructure, from communication to commerce, shapes modern societies. This infrastructure comes with a significant energy cost. Data centers, IoT networks, and cloud computing platforms are just a few examples of these energy-hungry industries. US data centers alone are expected to consume nearly 10% of electricity by 2030. This growing strain on power systems needs solutions that deliver energy efficiently, sustainably, and reliably.
Medium-voltage (MV) systems are a big part of the solution. These systems operate at higher voltages (typically ranging from 1 kV to 35 kV), which reduces the required current and minimizes energy lost during transmission. MV systems are also ideal for long-distance energy delivery, the integration of renewable energy, and high-demand applications like data centers, where minimizing energy loss and improving efficiency are critical.
As energy-intensive industries expand, the demand for MV solutions will continue to grow. Manufacturers must scale up production and develop forward-looking solutions that not only meet today’s demands but also anticipate the challenges of tomorrow’s energy landscape.
A bold investment: Mt. Juliet’s role in the energy landscape
Enter the Mt. Juliet, Tennessee facility—Schneider Electric’s latest step forward in the medium voltage market in North America. The 500,000-square-foot facility more than doubles our previous production capacity for medium-voltage solutions in the region.
Our $100 million investment in the Mt. Juliet facility is more than just an expansion of manufacturing capacity—it’s a strategic move to address the growing demand for medium-voltage solutions in North America. Historically, we focused heavily on low voltage systems in this region, but as energy-intensive industries such as data centers rapidly expand, medium voltage technology is becoming more critical to delivering power efficiently across large distances with minimal energy loss.
Schneider Electric designed the Mt. Juliet facility to increase its medium-voltage production capacity in North America,. Medium-voltage systems provide essential benefits for sectors with high energy demands by minimizing losses during energy transmission. This makes them ideal for energy-intensive operations such as data centers, where every watt saved in transmission contributes to greater overall efficiency.
Why medium voltage matters
As industries continue their push toward their net zero goals, demand for medium voltage solutions is accelerating. For example, MV systems are critical for the efficient transmission of power generated from wind and solar farms. This is because electricity may need to travel over distance—from remote generation sites to production facilities. Similarly, the growth of smart grids and electric vehicle charging infrastructure requires scalable, energy-efficient solutions that MV technology provides. As data centers, utilities, and industrial sectors become more energy-intensive, MV systems will play an increasingly vital role in ensuringthat power is delivered reliably and sustainably to meet rising demand.
Without advanced MV infrastructure, these industries face inefficiencies that increase operational costs and complicate their sustainability efforts. By investing in MV technology, and creating a necessary bridge between large-scale power generation and end-user applications, Schneider Electric is helping to solve these issues. This will ensure greater reliability and flexibility for businesses looking to future-proof their operations
The future of energy efficiency: A broader perspective
The importance of medium-voltage technology goes beyond individual investments. Our Mt. Juliet facility is just one crucial piece of a much larger puzzle. Efficient power has become increasingly critical. Because of this, energy efficiency strategies must tap into a variety of innovations and strategies, from advanced MV systems to integrated renewable energy sources. This evolution will ensure our energy infrastructure can meet future demands.
Schneider Electric’s broader initiatives reflect our commitment to local impact and global leadership in sustainability. The efforts to reduce emissions across our supply chain and maintain an “A” rating from the Carbon Disclosure Project for 12 consecutive years highlight our dedication to leading the charge in sustainable energy solutions. Recognition as the world’s most sustainable company in Time magazine’s 2024 ranking underscores this focus.
For more details on the Mt. Juliet facility and Schneider Electric’s medium voltage strategy, check out the official press release or learn more about our medium voltage solutions.
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