ABB and NVIDIA Partner on Next-Gen AI Data Centers

Collaboration focuses on quantum-scale power distribution for future workloads

ABB has announced a partnership with NVIDIA to accelerate the development of next-generation data centers designed to handle gigawatt-scale energy demands. The collaboration centers on advanced power distribution technologies that can support the rising energy needs of artificial intelligence operations. Research and development efforts will back NVIDIA’s planned 800-volt direct current (VDC) architecture for one-megawatt server racks. Delivering such power efficiently requires significant innovation in both hardware and system design.

Meeting AI’s Expanding Energy Demands

Global data center energy consumption is projected to rise from 80 GW in 2024 to around 220 GW by 2030, according to Dell’Oro Group. AI workloads are expected to account for nearly 70 percent of this growth. ABB’s expertise in direct current systems and solid-state electronics will support NVIDIA’s transition to high-density power architectures. Future facilities will combine medium-voltage uninterruptible power supplies with DC distribution to server rooms, improving efficiency and resilience.

Giampiero Frisio, head of ABB’s Energy division, said the company has invested early in UPS, DC, and solid-state technologies to meet AI’s growing demands. He emphasized that the partnership is one of several initiatives aimed at supporting the data center community. Dion Harris, who leads NVIDIA’s HPC, Cloud, and AI Infrastructure division, added that the collaboration will help the industry shift toward 800-volt systems. These architectures are seen as critical for building the next generation of AI infrastructure.

Innovations in Power Distribution

ABB’s portfolio for data centers includes intelligent distribution systems, backup power solutions, and digital monitoring tools. Around 40 percent of its electrification research focuses on areas vital to future facilities, such as electrical architectures, protection devices, DC distribution, and cooling. Among its latest innovations is HiPerGuard, the world’s first medium-voltage solid-state UPS. This solution enables higher energy density and efficiency while reducing space requirements.

Another breakthrough is the ABB SACE Infinitus, the first IEC-certified solid-state circuit breaker. Designed for DC distribution, it provides the speed and control needed for advanced architectures. These technologies aim to ensure continuous operation and optimize energy use in AI-driven environments. Together, they form the foundation for scalable, secure, and efficient data centers.

Strategic Outlook for AI Infrastructure

The partnership highlights the growing importance of energy efficiency in AI infrastructure. As demand for AI services expands worldwide, data centers must adopt new methods of power distribution to remain sustainable. ABB and NVIDIA’s joint efforts are expected to set benchmarks for future facilities. The move also reflects broader industry trends toward electrification and digitalization in critical infrastructure.