The protection relay industry is rapidly evolving with the adoption of digital substations, IEC 61850 communication, and advanced grid monitoring. To support modern power system requirements, Schneider Electric has progressively phased out legacy MiCOM relay platforms and introduced the next-generation Easergy protection relay range.
For users operating legacy MiCOM P20 series relays (P12x, P22x, P521, P821, P92x), the Easergy P3 and Easergy P5 series serve as the modern functional replacement platform with enhanced cybersecurity, diagnostics, and communication capabilities.
This guide explains the transition, technical differences, and accurate replacement approach for industrial, EPC, and utility applications.
What Was the Schneider MiCOM P20 Series?
The MiCOM P20 series was a widely deployed numerical protection relay platform used across medium voltage (MV) and high voltage (HV) applications in substations, industries, and infrastructure projects.
The MiCOM P20 family included:
MiCOM P12x – Feeder Protection Relay
MiCOM P22x – Advanced Feeder Protection
MiCOM P521 – Motor Protection Relay
MiCOM P821 – Transformer Protection Relay
MiCOM P92x – Distance Protection Relay
These relays were known for:
Reliable overcurrent and earth fault protection
Proven performance in substations and industrial systems
Modular communication options (Modbus, IEC protocols depending on variant)
Long operational lifecycle in legacy grid installations
Phase-Out Status of MiCOM P20 Series
Schneider Electric has progressively moved away from the legacy MiCOM platform as part of its modernization strategy. Several MiCOM P20 models have reached last order or phase-out status depending on region and configuration, with migration recommended toward the Easergy protection relay platform.
It is important to note:
Easergy relays are functional and technological successors, not direct one-to-one renamed models.
Support and spares for installed MiCOM relays may still continue as per Schneider Electric lifecycle policies.
Explore More : Schneider Easergy P5 Relay Explained: Types, Features, Uses & How to Choose the Right Model
Schneider Easergy P3 Relay – Complete Guide to Features, Types & Applications
Schneider Electric MiCOM P111 Relay – Ultimate Guide to Protection, Performance & Reliability
Functional Replacement Mapping – MiCOM to Easergy Series
Below is the technically accepted functional migration approach used by system integrators and panel builders:
MiCOM P111 and P11x Series Replacement (Important for Retrofits)
In addition to the P20 family, many installations still operate legacy MiCOM P11x relays such as P111 (feeder protection).
For modernization projects:
MiCOM P111 / P11x → Easergy P1F (Feeder Protection)
The Easergy P1 series offers compact design, improved reliability, and modern communication support suitable for panel retrofits and feeder protection upgrades.
Explore our complete Protection Relay series
Why Upgrade to Easergy P3 & P5 Protection Relays?
Advanced Digital Protection Algorithms
Easergy P3 and P5 relays feature faster processing, improved selectivity, and enhanced protection logic for modern electrical networks.
Improved Cybersecurity
Built-in cybersecurity architecture aligns with modern grid and industrial communication standards.
IEC 61850 Edition 2 Compatibility
Native IEC 61850 support enables seamless integration into digital substations and SCADA systems.
Enhanced Diagnostics & Monitoring
Event recording
Disturbance recording
Sequence of events (SOE) logging
Predictive maintenance insights
Modern HMI and Engineering Tools
User-friendly interface, improved configuration software, and better commissioning experience compared to legacy MiCOM relays.
Key Technical Advantages of Easergy Over MiCOM Platform
Higher communication flexibility (Modbus TCP/RTU, IEC 61850)
Improved measurement accuracy
Wider auxiliary power supply range
Advanced protection functions and logic customization
Long-term product lifecycle support
Typical Applications of Easergy P3 & P5 Relays
Easergy protection relays are suitable for:
Utility substations
Industrial power distribution systems
Motor control centers (MCC)
Renewable energy plants
Oil & gas facilities
Manufacturing plants
Transmission and distribution networks
When Should You Migrate from MiCOM to Easergy?
Migration is recommended if:
Your system uses aging MiCOM P12x, P22x, P521, P821, or P92x relays
Spare parts availability is becoming limited
You are upgrading to IEC 61850-based automation
You are planning substation modernization or retrofit projects
Upgrading ensures long-term serviceability, better diagnostics, and compatibility with modern grid standards.
Important Technical Clarification (For Engineers & Consultants)
Easergy P3 and P5 relays are:
Functional replacements
Technological upgrades
Application-based migration solutions
They are not direct renamed versions of MiCOM relays. Proper model selection should always be based on:
Protection function required
CT/VT configuration
Communication protocol
I/O requirements
System voltage level
Where to Buy Genuine Easergy Protection Relays
For industries, EPC contractors, and panel builders looking to upgrade from legacy MiCOM relays, sourcing genuine products with technical support is critical.
Electrihub supplies:
Genuine Schneider Electric Easergy P1, P3 & P5 Relays
Retrofit and replacement guidance
Technical selection support
PAN India and global supply with expedited delivery
Final Thoughts
The migration from legacy MiCOM P20 and P11x relay platforms to the Easergy P1, P3, and P5 series represents a significant technological advancement in protection relay systems. With enhanced cybersecurity, IEC 61850 compatibility, improved diagnostics, and long-term lifecycle support, Easergy relays are the future-ready solution for modern industrial and utility protection applications.
If your facility is still operating MiCOM relays, transitioning to the Easergy platform ensures higher reliability, better system integration, and continued manufacturer support for years to come.
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