• Joint initiative aims to deliver innovative electrical infrastructure for gigawatt-level data centers
• Expanding energy requirements for AI applications demand revolutionary power distribution systems and architectural designs
• ABB’s leadership in direct current (DC) technology and solid-state components will enable NVIDIA’s 800 VDC framework

ABB has revealed a strategic partnership with NVIDIA to expedite the creation of next-generation data centers capable of handling gigawatt-scale operations. This collaboration will prioritize engineering high-efficiency, scalable electrical infrastructure to meet escalating demands for AI computing power. Research efforts will specifically target the implementation of NVIDIA’s proposed 800 VDC power system for 1 megawatt server racks.

Achieving efficient delivery of such high-capacity power necessitates transformative advancements in electrical distribution systems and architectural frameworks. Emerging data center designs will integrate medium voltage (MV) uninterruptible power supply (UPS) units with direct current (DC) distribution networks utilizing solid-state power electronics for server room operations.

“ABB is spearheading the development of critical electrical distribution technologies shaping tomorrow’s data centers,” stated Giampiero Frisio, President of ABB Electrification. “Our early investments in advanced UPS systems, DC infrastructure, and solid-state components position us to address AI’s escalating energy needs. Together with NVIDIA, we’re driving industry adoption of 800 volt architectures essential for supporting next-level AI infrastructure.”

Industry projections indicate a surge in global data center capacity from 80 GW in 2024 to approximately 220 GW by 2030, with infrastructure investments expected to surpass $1 trillion (Source: Dell’Oro Group). AI-specific workloads are projected to represent roughly 70% of this expansion.

“As global AI adoption accelerates, data centers require innovative power distribution strategies that enhance efficiency and streamline system designs,” noted Dion Harris, senior director of HPC, Cloud and AI Infrastructure at NVIDIA. “This joint effort with ABB is advancing 800 volt architectures that will underpin the high-density computing environments necessary for future AI breakthroughs.”

ABB’s data center solutions feature advanced power management systems, emergency energy reserves, digital performance analytics, and other critical components ensuring uninterrupted operation and optimized energy consumption for AI servers. Approximately 40% of ABB’s electrification R&D focuses on technologies vital for next-generation facilities, including electrical frameworks, protective equipment, DC networks, and thermal management systems.

Recent ABB innovations supporting data center evolution include HiPerGuard, the world’s first solid-state MV UPS, which enhances power density and energy efficiency within compact installations. The SACE Infinitus, the industry’s first IEC-certified solid-state circuit breaker, provides ultra-fast response times and precise control required for effective direct current distribution.

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