ABB is poised to revolutionize the future of data centers in partnership with NVIDIA, focusing on advanced power distribution technologies to meet the growing power demands of artificial intelligence (AI) workloads. The collaboration centers around the development and implementation of next-generation gigawatt-scale data centers that leverage NVIDIA’s new 800 VDC (voltage direct current) power architecture aimed at providing efficient power solutions for 1 megawatt server racks.
As global data center demand is forecasted to surge from 80 GW in 2024 to approximately 220 GW by 2030, with a capital expenditure exceeding $1 trillion, the need for innovative power distribution systems becomes critical. AI workloads are projected to be responsible for around 70% of this growth, necessitating cutting-edge solutions to enhance efficiency while simplifying designs.
ABB’s expertise in high-performance direct current and solid-state electronics aligns with NVIDIA’s vision. “ABB is leading the development of new power distribution technologies that will shape the next generation of data centers,” said Giampiero Frisio, President of ABB Electrification. “Our collaboration with NVIDIA is vital in advancing 800-volt architectures, crucial for supporting the infrastructure required for high-density AI applications.”
This partnership aims to integrate a medium voltage (MV) uninterruptible power supply (UPS) with direct current power distribution, employing solid-state power electronics devices to provide a more resilient and adaptable power architecture for upcoming data centers. Dion Harris, senior director at NVIDIA, emphasized the necessity for new power distribution methodologies that not only improve efficiency but also enhance design simplicity to accommodate rampant AI demand.
ABB’s diverse portfolio for data centers includes intelligent power distribution solutions, backup systems, and digital monitoring tools, all designed to optimize energy utilization while ensuring uninterrupted operations. Approximately 40% of ABB’s research efforts focus on areas essential to evolving data centers, such as electrical architectures and cooling solutions.
Recent innovations by ABB, including the HiPerGuard—a cutting-edge solid-state MV UPS—and the SACE Infinitus, the world’s first IEC-certified solid-state circuit breaker, are positioned to enhance power density and energy efficiency in AI infrastructures. These developments contribute to making direct current distribution a viable option for modern data centers.
As a leader in electrification and automation, ABB aims to create a more sustainable future by leveraging its engineering and digitalization capabilities, thus enabling industries to enhance operational efficiency while achieving productivity and sustainability goals. With over 140 years of experience and a global workforce of around 110,000 employees, ABB continues to strive for innovative solutions that empower data centers to meet the evolving demands of AI technology.