Siemens and Reinhausen Develop Power Solutions for AI Data Centers
High-voltage DC power distribution could be the future of AI infrastructure.
1Growing Power Needs of AI Data Centers
Siemens and Reinhausen are developing new technology to meet the increasing power demands of AI hardware. AI data centers are straining traditional power distribution systems due to intensive workloads. This situation necessitates more efficient and reliable power solutions. Siemens and Reinhausen propose 800 VDC power distribution to address this need.
2Advantages of 800 VDC Power Distribution
800 VDC power distribution offers more efficient energy use in AI data centers. This technology converts medium-voltage AC to 800 VDC, providing a more compact solution compared to traditional multi-stage AC-DC conversion systems. It also minimizes energy losses by reducing intermediate conversion stages, which is crucial for high-density AI infrastructure.
3Nvidia and Industry Giants' Approach
Industry giants like Nvidia support 800 VDC power distribution for AI infrastructure. Nvidia has developed an MGX-compatible 800 VDC power rack, planned for release in the second half of 2026. This technology is deemed necessary to support IT racks drawing 1 MW or more. Hyperscalers like Google are also planning for megawatt-scale racks.
4Reinhausen's Technological Contribution
Reinhausen is developing technology to make AI data centers resilient to sudden load spikes. This technology enhances the performance of servers, storage systems, and cooling systems, preventing outages. Reinhausen's managing director Wilfried Breuer states that this technology provides the efficiency and reliability required by AI data centers.
5Siemens' Contribution to Electrical Infrastructure
Siemens is developing a modular solid-state transformer (SST) for 800 VDC power distribution. This SST converts medium-voltage AC up to 36 kV into a stable 800 VDC output. Siemens' CEO of Electrification and Automation, Stephan May, emphasizes that this technology will strengthen their leading position in data center electrification.
6Infineon's Silicon Carbide Semiconductors
German electrical firm Infineon is positioning its silicon carbide (SiC) semiconductors to support 800 VDC power distribution. These semiconductors enable more efficient and reliable power distribution in AI infrastructure. Infineon's technology is compatible with the SST developed by Siemens and Reinhausen.
7The Future of AI Data Centers
AI data centers could reach megawatt-scale power consumption in the future. According to the Uptime Institute, average rack density has just surpassed 11 kW, but hyperscalers are planning to exceed these levels. This indicates that 800 VDC power distribution could be the future of AI infrastructure.
8Industry Transformation
The increasing power needs of AI data centers are transforming the industry's electrical infrastructure. Companies like Siemens, Reinhausen, and Infineon are leading this transformation. 800 VDC power distribution ensures that AI infrastructure becomes more efficient and sustainable, shaping the future of the industry.