As AI Reshapes our Digital World, ABB Helps Data Centers Outrun
As data center operators, designers and infrastructure providers, we’re seeing seismic shifts – not just in what we build, but how we build. September and October brought many of us in the industry together and a consistent set of themes has emerged. In this note, I’d like to share what we’re seeing, what it means for architecture, and ABB is ready to partner with you in this new paradigm.
AI is pushing power densities into uncharted territory. Racks that once drew 5-10 kW are now demanding 30,50, even 100 kW. At ABB, we see modular, high-efficiency power systems like medium voltage UPS architectures as the answer. They enable speed, scalability, and resilience all while minimizing materials and physical footprint. Scalability and space optimization are often two limiting factors. We have seen a greater adoption of Ring Main Units (RMUs) used in outdoor applications. RMUs are compact in size, maximizing space in the grey space.
Data centers are no longer a single definition. Some are designed as traditional cloud hubs – built for scale, redundancy, and connectivity. Others are evolving into AI factories – purpose-built for massive power density, liquid cooling, and ultra-fast deployment cycles.
