Next-Generation Medium-Voltage Architecture for AI Data Centers

Overview

The paper argues that low-voltage UPS architecture does not scale for 200-500 MW AI campuses and proposes moving to medium-voltage distribution, typically 6-35 kV. The target for an MV UPS is system efficiency above 98% and response in under 2 ms to grid disturbances. The UPS handles fast transients while BESS takes longer-duration support, peak shaving and microgrid functions.

The grid-code section summarises conditions large loads now face: ride-through of dips down to 0% for 200-300 ms and of repeated dips (for example 10 within 90 s); frequency tolerance typically 47.5-52 Hz in Europe and +/-2 Hz in Asia; RoCoF up to 3 Hz/s and phase jumps up to +/-30 degrees. After a fault, active power must recover to at least 90% within 0.5 s, with power factor >=0.99 and reactive support.

In the components section BESS blocks span 0.6-21.6 MW with 1, 2 or 4 hour durations. MV redundancy variants are shown as distributed redundant, 2N and N+1. The paper ties the architecture to 24/7 carbon-free operation through a microgrid approach, treating load, storage and generation under one control framework. It is a vendor article describing ABB's own approach and dates from 2026; the comparison figures are not independently verified. Grid-code examples vary by country, so a given project must use its own grid operator's requirements; the paper's value is in listing which topics need to be checked.

Key points

1. MV distribution typically 6-35 kV for AI campuses of 200-500 MW
2. MV UPS target >98% system efficiency and <2 ms response to grid disturbances
3. Grid-code examples: ride through dips to 0% for 200-300 ms, repeated dips (e.g. 10 within 90 s)
4. Frequency tolerance typically 47.5-52 Hz (Europe), +/-2 Hz (Asia); RoCoF up to 3 Hz/s; phase jump up to +/-30 deg
5. Post-fault active power recovery >=90% within 0.5 s; PF >=0.99 / VAR support
6. BESS blocks 0.6-21.6 MW with 1, 2 or 4 h durations
7. Redundancy variants: distributed redundant, 2N, N+1

Using it in design

• For loads above roughly 30-50 MW add a grid-code compliance checklist (LVRT duration, frequency band, RoCoF, PF) and let users choose LV-UPS versus MV-UPS architecture.
• Add MV UPS (efficiency 98%+) and BESS (MW, MWh, duration 1/2/4 h) to the catalog.
• BESS energy calculation: energy = P x duration / DoD.
• Offer MV redundancy variants (distributed redundant, 2N, N+1) as templates and show the cost and availability difference.

Who should read it

Electrical designers and project decision makers choosing grid connection and UPS architecture for AI campuses of hundreds of MW.

Related standards

• IEC 62040-3
• IEC 62271
• EN 50549 / grid codes
• IEEE 2800
• EN 50600-2-2

Publication details

Authors

ABB

Publisher

ABB

Year

2026

Document number

9AKK108472A2558

Document language

English

Source type

Manufacturer

Access

Free to read

Licence

Copyright retained; citation only — the publisher’s terms apply to the original document

Citation