Innovations in Data Center Power and Cooling Solutions

ABB launches grid stability package for data centres

ABB, a multinational corporation specialising in industrial automation and electrification products, has introduced a pre-engineered synchronous condenser package designed to help data centre operators address grid stability challenges associated with growing AI workloads and increasing power demand. The company says the modular system is intended to support power network stability at grid connection points, helping operators connect new capacity while maintaining reliable power system performance. As AI adoption increases, data centres are placing greater demands on electricity networks. Large and rapidly changing power loads can affect voltage and frequency stability, creating challenges for both grid operators and data centre developers seeking new connections. ABB's synchronous condenser package is designed to provide instantaneous inertia and dynamic reactive power, helping to stabilise voltage and frequency during sudden changes in demand. According to ABB, the pre-engineered design is intended to simplify deployment by reducing engineering requirements, installation complexity, and project delivery times. The package combines a synchronous condenser, flywheel, starting system, lubrication system, cooling infrastructure, auxiliary equipment, e-house, and optional noise enclosure within a standardised design. The flywheel includes an integrated safety enclosure and is designed specifically to support electrical network stabilisation. Supporting AI-driven power demands ABB says the solution can help operators address grid stability requirements earlier in the development process, potentially simplifying approvals and supporting future capacity expansion without significant changes to core power infrastructure. The company also states that providing mechanical, electrical, and control systems through a single supplier can reduce on-site integration requirements and streamline project delivery. David Bjerharg, Business Line Manager, High Speed Synchronous at ABB, notes, "As data centres become increasingly widespread and AI-driven demand increases, grid stability is becoming a fundamental requirement for ongoing expansion. "This solution enables operators to connect faster, operate reliably from day one, and scale with confidence." The launch reflects growing industry focus on power infrastructure capable of supporting AI-driven facilities, where high-density computing workloads can create significant fluctuations in electricity demand. ABB says the synchronous condenser package is intended to support long-term infrastructure performance while helping operators deploy new data centre capacity more efficiently. For more from ABB, click here.

Siemens, Infineon partner on data centre circuit protection

German multinational technology company Siemens and German semiconductor manufacturing company Infineon Technologies have partnered to develop electrical protection technology for data centres, industrial facilities, and battery energy storage systems (BESS). Under the agreement, Infineon will supply silicon carbide (SiC) power modules for use in Siemens's SENTRON 3QD2 semiconductor circuit breakers, designed to improve efficiency, power density, and reliability in power distribution systems. According to the companies, growing electrification and the increasing complexity of AI data centres and industrial operations are driving demand for faster and more reliable electrical protection. A semiconductor circuit breaker, also known as a solid-state circuit breaker, is designed to protect electrical circuits from excessive current caused by faults such as short circuits and overloads. Unlike conventional electromechanical breakers, which use mechanical components to interrupt current flow, semiconductor-based devices use electronic components and control algorithms to react significantly faster. Siemens says the SENTRON 3QD2 can interrupt current in the microsecond range, making it suitable for direct current (DC) power systems where rapid fault isolation is required to minimise downtime and equipment damage. Andreas Weisl, Executive Vice President and Chief Sales Officer of Industrial and Infrastructure at Infineon, notes, "AI data centres and factories are becoming increasingly electrified and complex. "This increases vulnerability to electrical failures and drives the demand for more sustainable, efficient, and reliable power distribution systems. "By combining our advanced silicon carbide technology with Siemens's expertise in power distribution, we are addressing this demand to ensure fast, safe, and reliable operations in power-critical environments." Growing interest in DC power systems The collaboration centres on Infineon's CoolSiC MOSFET power module, which has been integrated into Siemens's semiconductor circuit breaker platform. The companies say the technology supports the wider adoption of DC power distribution systems, which are gaining attention in industrial environments and data centres because of their potential efficiency benefits and ability to integrate more effectively with battery storage systems. Markus Grabmeier, CEO Electrical Products at Siemens Smart Infrastructure, comments, "Our new direct current portfolio offers innovative solutions that not only improve energy efficiency but also enable the development of resilient, future-proof infrastructure. "Direct current applications can decrease energy consumption and substantially cut material usage. By integrating batteries, peak power can also be significantly reduced. "With this approach, we are making a decisive contribution to the decarbonisation of our industries, while reinforcing our commitment to developing technologies that deliver tangible value to our customers and society." The companies state that the partnership is intended to support the growing requirements of power-critical environments where electrical protection systems must operate quickly and reliably to maintain availability and reduce the risk of service disruption. A demonstration of the SENTRON 3QD2 semiconductor circuit breaker will be showcased at PCIM Europe 2026 in Nuremberg, Germany, from 9–11 June. For more from Siemens, click here.

A-Gas to attend DCN Toronto as sponsor

A-Gas, a company specialising in lifecycle refrigerant management (LRM), will attend Data Center Nation (DCN) Toronto in Canada on 9 June as an official sponsor, following its participation as a Gold Sponsor at DCN Milan earlier this year. The company is increasing its engagement with the data centre sector as demand for digital infrastructure continues to grow and cooling efficiency remains a key consideration for operators. A-Gas specialises in LRM, providing services focused on the recovery, reclamation, reuse, and disposal of refrigerants. While the company has traditionally operated in sectors including HVAC, automotive, and cold chain logistics, it is expanding its focus on data centres and their cooling requirements. Operating in 15 countries, A-Gas provides refrigerant supply services alongside refrigerant recovery and management programmes for facilities undergoing equipment replacement or decommissioning. Refrigerant management remains key cooling consideration As data centre operators deploy higher-density infrastructure and adopt new cooling technologies, refrigerant management is becoming an increasingly important aspect of sustainability and operational planning. A-Gas says its offering includes on-site refrigerant recovery services, reclaimed refrigerant supply, and the destruction of refrigerants that cannot be processed for future reuse. The company notes it will use the event to meet with industry stakeholders and discuss approaches to cooling infrastructure management within data centre environments. For more from A-Gas, click here.

EUDCA backs EU data centre energy integration plan

The European Data Centre Association (EUDCA), the representative body of the European data centre community, has co-signed a Declaration of Intent aimed at improving the integration of data centres within the European Union's energy system. The agreement supports the objectives of the European Commission's Strategic Roadmap for Digitalisation and AI in the Energy Sector and seeks to strengthen cooperation between data centre operators, energy providers, grid operators, and public authorities. As investment in AI, cloud computing, and digital infrastructure continues to increase across Europe, the declaration is intended to help establish common frameworks for planning and coordinating future infrastructure development. According to the signatories, the initiative will contribute to the development of shared principles, procedures, and best practices that can be adopted by EU Member States to support sustainable growth in data centre capacity. The declaration aligns with several European policy initiatives, including the Data Centre Energy Efficiency Package, the European Grids Package, and the proposed Cloud and AI Development Act. Industry groups target closer energy sector collaboration The declaration has been signed by organisations representing a broad range of sectors, including electricity networks, energy storage, renewable energy, district heating, and digital infrastructure. Among the signatories are the EUDCA, Eurelectric, ENTSO-E, WindEurope, SolarPower Europe, Energy Storage Europe, and the EU DSO Entity. Lex Coors, President of the EUDCA, says, "The energy system can no longer be viewed as a single connection to a single data centre. Europe is moving into a more complex, four-dimensional environment where capacity, flexibility, sustainability, and digital resilience must be planned together. "Data centres are becoming part of the wider energy system, and this Declaration of Intent is an important step towards building that cooperation in a responsible and future-proof way." The declaration establishes a series of working groups focused on areas including grid planning, connection agreements, flexibility services, energy generation, and energy storage. Working groups to address future capacity requirements Europe is expected to expand its data centre capacity significantly over the next five to seven years as AI infrastructure investment accelerates. The declaration is intended to support this growth while helping Member States meet wider energy and sustainability objectives. Michael Winterson, Secretary General of the EUDCA, explains, "Europe’s AI, cloud, and digital ambitions will require significant new infrastructure capacity over the coming years. Delivering that growth responsibly will depend on much closer coordination between the digital infrastructure and energy sectors. "This Declaration of Intent shows our commitment to partner with energy providers, local authorities, and wider EU institutions to deliver on advanced technologies, energy, and sustainability ambitions." The EUDCA says it will contribute technical and policy expertise to the working groups as discussions progress, supporting the development of future frameworks for cooperation between Europe's digital infrastructure and energy sectors. For more from the EUDCA, click here.

Bergen Engines signs 750MW data centre deal

Bergen Engines, a Norwegian manufacturer of medium-speed gas and dual-fuel engines, has signed an agreement with Crusoe to provide up to 750MW of power generation capacity for AI data centre developments in the United States. The agreement comprises a 438MW contract and a further 310MW letter of intent, supporting Crusoe's expanding portfolio of AI infrastructure projects. Crusoe develops large-scale AI data centre campuses using a combination of grid power, natural gas generation, renewable energy, and battery storage. The company deploys both grid-connected and behind-the-meter power infrastructure to support the high energy demands of AI workloads. John Adams, Senior Vice President of Power at Crusoe, says, "The pace of AI infrastructure development demands builders who treat power as a first-class AI infrastructure layer. "Bergen’s gensets give us the reliable baseload power we need to energise large-scale campuses, deployable on our timeline. We’re building AI factories at record speed, and this agreement helps us maintain that pace." Under the initial contract, Bergen Engines will supply 27 gas-powered generating sets rated at 12.5MWe and 20 units rated at 5MWe. Additional units are included within the letter of intent, with deliveries planned across multiple US locations through 2027. On-site generation supports growing AI power demand The generators are intended to provide continuous baseload power for AI data centres operating around the clock. The systems will incorporate alternators from Marelli Motori and dynamic power stabilisation technology from Piller Power Systems. According to the companies, the technology is designed to manage rapid fluctuations in electricity demand associated with computing-intensive workloads. Dean Richards, CEO of Piller Power Systems, says, "AI workloads have a distinct power profile that demands purpose-built generation and stabilisation technology. "SHIELD-X is designed to manage those dynamics, protecting the generation assets and maintaining stable plant operation while ensuring consistent power quality for the data centre." As AI infrastructure capacity expands, developers are increasingly turning to on-site and behind-the-meter power generation where grid connections are unavailable or unable to support required capacity within project timescales. Theo Lorentzos, Vice President of Sales for Bergen Engines Americas, notes, "The pace of AI infrastructure development is unlike anything the power generation industry has seen before. "In this market, access to power determines how fast you can scale. Crusoe’s model is built around speed and stable power, and our solution is designed to deliver both." The agreement forms part of a wider trend towards dedicated power infrastructure for AI data centres, enabling developers to accelerate deployments while reducing reliance on traditional utility connection timelines. For more from Bergen Engines, click here.

Schneider Electric unveils Uniflair XCA chillers

Global energy technology company Schneider Electric has introduced the Uniflair XCA range of air-cooled and free-cooling chillers, designed for high-density, liquid-cooled data centres supporting AI workloads. The new portfolio comprises the Uniflair XCAC air-cooled series and the Uniflair XCAF free-cooling series. Both incorporate oil-free centrifugal compressors with magnetic bearing technology and variable-speed drives to support operation across varying thermal loads and environmental conditions. The chillers are available in six sizes, ranging from 1,200kW to 2,500kW, and utilise low global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants. Schneider Electric says the systems are designed to support elevated water temperatures commonly associated with liquid cooling deployments in AI data centres. Andrew Bradner, Senior Vice President, Cooling Business at Schneider Electric, notes, "Energy efficiency, adaptability, and reliability are essential components of liquid cooling systems for AI-optimised data centres, and we’ve designed the Uniflair XCA line with these most important design features at the forefront. "With adaptable water operating temperatures and versatile deployment options, the XCA line features a system-level approach that gives operators scalability, enhanced performance, and long-term peace of mind as data centre complexity continues to rise." Cooling infrastructure adapts to rising AI power densities As AI applications, GPU clusters, and liquid cooling deployments increase data centre power densities, cooling infrastructure is becoming an increasingly important factor in facility efficiency and reliability. The Uniflair XCA platform incorporates oil-free magnetic bearing centrifugal compressors, which remove the need for lubrication systems and are intended to reduce maintenance requirements and mechanical losses. The chillers also feature a spray evaporator combined with V-shaped microchannel coils, designed to improve heat exchange performance while reducing refrigerant volume and material usage. For free-cooling deployments, the XCAF models support water outlet temperatures of up to 33°C and are designed to operate in ambient temperatures ranging from -20°C to 52°C. Schneider Electric states that, in suitable climates, the free-cooling configuration can reduce energy consumption compared with mechanical cooling systems by extending free-cooling operating periods. The range can also be configured with a variety of electrical, hydraulic, acoustic, and performance options to suit different deployment requirements. Additionally, a quick restart capability is included, enabling systems to reportedly return to full operating capacity within three minutes of a power outage. New control features target operational efficiency The XCA range also introduces new firmware and control functions designed to optimise cooling performance. These include variable-speed pump algorithms supporting constant flow, constant temperature differential, and constant head pressure operation, alongside advanced fan control modes that can be adjusted according to temperature, load conditions, or scheduled operating periods. Additional monitoring capabilities include energy metering and real-time water flow measurement to provide greater visibility into system performance. According to Schneider Electric, these features are designed to reduce compressor cycling and improve long-term operational stability. The first Uniflair XCA chiller units are scheduled to begin shipping globally in June 2026. For more from Schneider Electric, click here.

Panduit expands fault managed power portfolio

Panduit, a manufacturer of electrical and network infrastructure hardware, has launched the second generation of its Fault Managed Power System (FMPS), introducing higher power density and additional deployment options for enterprise environments. Designed for centralised power distribution, the FMPS Gen 2 platform is intended for use across campuses, warehouses, and large distributed facilities. The system uses Class 4 fault managed power technology, which allows power to be delivered over longer distances using low-voltage installation methods. According to Panduit, the platform is UL 1400 listed and SIL 3 rated, enabling organisations to distribute power while reducing electrical hazards and simplifying installation requirements. The company also states that the system uses less copper than traditional power distribution methods and remains backward compatible with existing FMPS deployments, allowing infrastructure upgrades without replacing existing installations. A key feature of the platform is the consolidation of backup power systems. By centralising UPS infrastructure rather than deploying units within individual intermediate distribution frames (IDFs), organisations can reduce equipment requirements, maintenance demands, and space utilisation. New hardware targets enterprise and edge deployments The FMPS Gen 2 portfolio includes a new 2kW system comprising a 1kW transmitter, a 2kW power supply, and a 2kW receiver. The range also includes a 600W single-channel receiver designed for applications such as lighting and security systems. Additional updates include higher-density power delivery within the same footprint, expanded receiver options, and support for both PoE++ and DC-powered devices. The platform is designed to support a range of applications including enterprise networking equipment, security and surveillance systems, wireless and in-building cellular infrastructure, lighting, and smart building technologies. Mahmoud Ibrahim, Senior Business Development Manager at Panduit Ventures, says, "FMPS Gen 2 reinforces our commitment to making enterprise power safer, simpler, and more efficient. "By increasing power density and enabling true UPS consolidation, customers can place power where it’s needed, remove complexity from IDFs, and confidently support the growing demands of modern networks - all without introducing new risk." The platform also incorporates monitoring and management capabilities intended to provide centralised visibility of connected infrastructure and support future expansion. Tom Kelly, Chief Technology Officer at Panduit, explains, "FMPS is engineered and designed by Panduit as a complete power platform, integrating power, cabling, and physical infrastructure into a single, coordinated solution. "Drawing on the expertise that developed the first generation of UL-listed Class 4 power distribution products, Panduit has engineered a second-generation system that aligns with where the market is going while also meeting requests from customers and partners in the space. "We’re excited to see the market transformation taking shape, as Class 4 power distribution adoption grows." For more from Panduit, click here.

VIRTUS installs super-grid transformers at Berlin campus

VIRTUS Data Centres, a UK data centre owner-operator and part of ST Telemedia Global Data Centres (STT GDC), has completed the installation of two 185MVA super-grid transformers at its Wustermark campus in Berlin/Brandenburg, Germany. According to the company, the transformers are among the largest deployed at a European data centre and represent a key milestone in the development of the site. The Wustermark campus is expected to become the first data centre campus in the Berlin/Brandenburg region to connect directly to a 380kV transmission network. VIRTUS says this will give customers the option of operating without diesel generators while maintaining access to conventional backup generation where required. The transformers form part of the campus's initial 300MW capacity, with power supplied through a dedicated 500MW substation and dual direct connections to the 50Hertz 380kV network. VIRTUS says the integration with the 50Hertz Wustermark substation and the high-voltage transmission connections are designed to provide a resilient and stable power architecture for large-scale data centre operations. High-voltage design targets efficiency and resilience The company says the site has been designed to support both traditional generator-backed operations and a generator-free operating model. As with other VIRTUS facilities, the campus will operate using 100% certified renewable electricity. The site is also located close to regional renewable energy resources, including onshore wind generation. According to VIRTUS, the higher-voltage transformer design provides several operational benefits, including improved electrical efficiency, reduced transmission losses, increased system stability, and enhanced resilience for high-density computing environments. The company adds that the approach may also help reduce system usage charges and long-term energy costs. Mike Golding, SVP of Construction at VIRTUS Data Centres, says, “Delivering the Wustermark Campus has been one of the most ambitious engineering programmes VIRTUS has undertaken to date. “From the 380kV connections to the deployment of these super-grid transformers, every element has been designed to deliver levels of resilience and scalability that have not previously been available in this region. “This campus represents a new generation of infrastructure - one that supports AI-scale growth, reduces reliance on generators, and aligns with the future of renewable energy.” For more from VIRTUS, click here.

ChemTreat joins Dow coolant network for data centres

ChemTreat, a US provider of industrial water treatment chemicals and cooling system services, has joined materials science company Dow’s Coolant Care Network as a strategic US service provider for AI and liquid-cooled data centre environments. Under the agreement, ChemTreat becomes Dow’s only preferred service provider in Virginia, USA, and will provide national support for the company’s coolant management programme. According to Dow, the Coolant Care Network combines coolant supply, fluid testing, data analysis, and field support within a single framework for data centre operators. ChemTreat will provide on-site services including fluid sampling, mitigation, and coolant optimisation, working alongside Dow-qualified laboratories and technical specialists. The companies say the collaboration is intended to support data centres deploying liquid cooling systems for AI and high-density compute workloads. Ashour Khamis, President of ChemTreat, notes, “The data centre industry is under enormous pressure to scale liquid cooling environments to meet AI-driven workload demands. “Pairing ChemTreat’s proven service-focused approach with Dow’s decades of thermal fluid innovation and reliable global supply chain allows us to help customers quickly deploy mission-critical systems and maintain reliable cooling lifecycle performance.” Liquid cooling demand grows alongside AI workloads ChemTreat says its data centre offering includes water treatment technologies, monitoring systems, specialist chemistries, and support for direct-to-chip cooling loops and facility cooling infrastructure. Through the partnership, the company will also provide access to Dow’s DOWFROST LC and DOWFROST HD heat transfer fluids, alongside certified coolant testing services and technical support. Chuck Carn, Data Center Growth Platform Director at Dow, says, “This collaboration reflects Dow’s clear understanding of the operational complexity data centre operators face as cooling systems become more critical to performance and uptime. “Collaborating with experienced service providers like ChemTreat, who uphold rigorous technical and service standards, is key to helping customers run their operations smoothly and with confidence.” The companies say the partnership is designed to address increasing cooling requirements as AI infrastructure deployment continues to expand globally.

MPs warn grid failures could cost Britain the AI race

The All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Data Centres has published its Insights Paper, summarising findings from its inaugural 'Call for Evidence'. The group is a cross‑party group of UK MPs and Peers that fosters parliamentary understanding of data centre development, examines sector challenges (particularly planning, energy, resilience, and sustainability) and makes evidence‑based policy recommendations to support UK digital infrastructure and economic growth. Notably, respondents to its Call for Evidence signalled a substantial appetite to invest in UK data centre infrastructure. Operators including Ark Data Centres, Nebius, Pure DC, and VIRTUS collectively identified £11–12 billion in specific investment plans, while Microsoft's submission committed a further £22 billion to UK AI infrastructure. Despite this intent, respondents consistently described a set of interconnected structural barriers constraining the pace and location of development: • Grid access and energy supply ranked as the sector's top priority, with 52% of respondents placing it first. • Planning was placed in the top three by nearly four in five respondents (79%), while energy costs, sustainability, water use, and skills also featured prominently across submissions. • The APPG is particularly keen to hear further evidence from community representatives, local authorities, and organisations with experience of data centre development outside London and the South East. Parliamentary comments Chris Curtis MP, Chair of the Data Centres APPG, notes, "This Call for Evidence shows that while significant investment is ready to support the UK's expanding AI and digital economy, it remains constrained by grid access, energy costs, and planning inconsistencies. “The APPG will use this evidence over the coming year to work constructively with stakeholders and the Government to ensure that there is a well-informed view on how data centre infrastructure drives our national economic growth." Alison Griffiths MP, Vice-Chair of the Data Centres APPG, adds, “The submissions to this Call for Evidence make clear that the barriers to data centre development are not insurmountable. "They highlight gaps in the consistent application of planning policy by local authorities, as well as the need to ensure electricity cost competitiveness is felt across every part of the country. "It is clear there are practical steps the Government can take to strengthen the UK’s leadership in digital infrastructure [and] I look forward to exploring these issues further in our upcoming evidence sessions.” David Reed MP, Officer of the Data Centres APPG, highlights, "The submissions from academic institutions such as Exeter, Durham, and Oxford remind us that research computing infrastructure is increasingly cost-prohibitive for academia. This gap risks undermining the UK's long-term international scientific competitiveness. “As the APPG deepens its work, I look forward to hearing from a broad range of stakeholders in this vital debate and developing practical solutions that support a thriving data centre ecosystem.” The Rt Hon. the Lord (Philip) Hunt of King’s Heath OBE, Officer of the Data Centres APPG, concludes, "Sustainability is not a secondary consideration for this sector; it is central to its long-term viability and its licence to operate in communities across the UK. “The evidence on waste heat recovery is particularly striking: the UK is currently capturing just 3–5% of the heat generated by data centres, against a backdrop of a national housing and energy challenge that demands innovative solutions. The APPG will be pressing hard on what policy levers can unlock this opportunity."