In construction projects, heavy electricity plays a role in providing power for high-capacity equipment systems to operate. The design and construction of heavy electricity systems are completely different from light electricity, requiring the technical team to clearly understand the process and safety standards to ensure stable operation performance for the project. The following article by VictoryCons will help you understand the heavy electricity system as well as how to distinguish between heavy electricity and light electricity.
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1. What is heavy electricity?
The Main Power Supply System is a system of equipment that uses high voltage power sources, commonly 220V (1 phase) and 380V (3 phase). This system plays a role in supplying and distributing the main power source for the entire project, serving production activities, daily life and operating essential equipment.

Specifically, heavy electricity has the function of transmitting electricity directly to industrial machinery, lighting systems, air conditioning, elevators, water pumping systems, and lightning protection devices, helping to ensure stability and safety in construction operations.
2. Distinguish between heavy and light electrical systems
Heavy and light electricity not only differ in the voltage level used but also have separate functions in the construction. Clearly distinguishing each type of system helps ensure the safety of users and protect property in the construction. Here are some criteria to help you clearly distinguish these two systems:
| Criteria | Heavy electrical system | Low voltage electrical system |
| Voltage source | Use high voltage, usually from 220V to 380V. | Use low voltage, usually not exceeding 35V AC (60V DC). |
| Main function | Provide main power source for large energy consuming activities in the building. | Serving small power consumption systems, utilities, security and communication |
| Power supply system | Transformer stations, medium voltage cabinets, generators, capacitor banks, ATS (Automatic Transfer Switch) systems, UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) systems, medium and low voltage cables, power distribution boards (MSB),… | Central fire alarm cabinet, network equipment (switch, router), video recorder, camera, speaker, microphone, access control device, sensor, network cable, signal cable,… |
| Equipment used | Production machinery, lighting systems, air conditioning, elevators, water pumping systems, lightning protection systems, etc. | LAN/WAN network, surveillance camera (CCTV), public address system (PA), access control, fire alarm, building management system (BMS), cable TV, intercom,… |
The clear distinction between heavy and light electricity helps to design and install the system in accordance with the function and requirements of each item in the project. In addition, this distinction also effectively supports the process of managing, operating, maintaining and repairing the system, ensuring safety and optimizing costs throughout the life cycle of the project.
3. What items does the heavy electrical system include?
Heavy electricity is an indispensable foundation, directly affecting the performance, stability and safety of every construction project. Depending on the requirements of each project, the heavy electricity system usually includes the following main items:
- Distribution Boards: This is the control center and distributes electricity to the entire building or to specific areas. Distribution boards usually contain devices such as circuit breakers, circuit breakers, fuses and electric meters.
- Socket System: Is a network connecting from the distribution cabinet to different sockets in the building, providing convenient and safe power source for users.
- Flexible Lighting System: This system can adjust the intensity, color or direction of lighting to meet a variety of needs in the project.

- Emergency Lighting System: Operates independently and activates automatically when the main power source is lost. This system helps ensure sufficient light for safe movement and identification of exits in emergency situations.
- Grounding System: Includes conductors and grounding rods connected to the ground, creating a low-resistance path for fault current to safely transmit to the ground, limiting the risk of fire and damage to equipment.
- Lightning Protection System: Designed to protect buildings and electrical equipment inside from the effects of lightning. Lightning protection systems include components such as grounding systems, lightning rods, and lightning conductors.
If the heavy electrical system is not designed to suit the needs of use or the characteristics of the project, it will easily cause unsafety and affect the life of the equipment. To ensure safety and operational efficiency, the heavy electrical system must be implemented by a reputable M&E contractor with practical capacity and strict compliance with technical standards.
4. Vietnam’s leading M&E contractor – VictoryCons
With over 14 years of experience in the field of general contracting and project development, VictoryCons is proud to be one of the leading M&E contractors in Vietnam. The company’s projects span the country with over 50 projects of various sizes, typically LuxCity Cam Pha, Regal Legend, Saigon Gateway.

VictoryCons has a team of experienced engineers, with in-depth knowledge of technical standards and strict adherence to safety procedures throughout the construction process. In every project, VictoryCons always maintains professionalism, demonstrates a sense of responsibility, and is committed to providing superior quality services, meeting all strict requirements from investors.
The above article includes the concept of heavy electricity , components in heavy electrical systems as well as how to distinguish between heavy and light electricity. The construction and installation of heavy electrical systems requires a team of highly qualified technicians and strict adherence to electrical safety regulations. VictoryCons is an M&E contractor specializing in the design and construction of heavy electrical systems nationwide. Contact VictoryCons now for advice and the most professional service!

Với hơn 15 năm kinh nghiệm trong quản lý và triển khai các dự án xây dựng quy mô lớn, ông đã từng đảm nhận nhiều vị trí lãnh đạo chủ chốt như Trưởng Ban Quản lý Dự án, Giám đốc Điều hành, và Phó Tổng Giám đốc Phát triển Dự án tại Tập đoàn Đất Xanh. Kể từ khi gia nhập VictoryCons, Ông đã có những đóng góp xuất sắc và mang tính chiến lược để giúp công ty đạt được nhiều thành tựu vượt bậc.
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