800 volts

I was watching yet another video on AI Data Centers. One of the things they are discussing is how many of the latest generation AI rack sets are going up to 800 volts DC, rather then the traditional 415 volt AC “wye” that provides 240 volts to each racks. It is further spreading the use of high-voltage DC electrification, which is necessary not just for energy intensive data centers, but also car charging, battery storage, heat pumps, and electrification more generally.

The greater adoption of the technology to safely handle such high DC voltages is only going to drive down costs, make energy distribution and delivery more efficient and widespread. AI data centers are going to expand the knowledge to more electricians, as we need to move greater and greater quantities of electrons through the grid efficiently.

Data centers are also requiring major upgrades to the utility grids to support these higher loads, and more generating facilities. In many cases these upgrades not just benefit data centers but all other users from residential to commercial. As solar and wind are the cheapest source of electricity over time due to lower maintenance costs and zero fuel costs, and can be brought online in relatively small increments, much of the added demand is coming from renewables.

Even if a lot of AI Data Centers are not ultimately built, society will benefit from electrical upgrades. We need more electricity as heat pumps and electric cars replace older fossil fuel infrastructure. Data center buildings with their high-voltage connections are natural locations for battery storage. Needed upgrades in face of the climate crisis, regardless of whether or not AI is all that it’s cracked up.