ABB Launches 34.5 kV Medium-Voltage UPS for AI Data Centers

ABB has introduced the HiPerGuard 34.5 kV medium-voltage uninterruptible power supply, claiming it is the first UPS system capable of direct connection to high-voltage grids without multi-stage voltage transformation. The product is certified under UL 9540 and targets new AI supercomputing campuses in North America and Europe.

Global data center power demand is projected to rise from 80 GW in 2024 to 220 GW by 2030, with approximately 70% of the increase driven by AI compute clusters. Traditional low-voltage UPS systems require multiple transformer steps, leading to energy loss, complex installation, and high capital expenditure for large-scale facilities.

The HiPerGuard UPS connects directly to 34.5 kV distribution grids, eliminating intermediate voltage conversion stages and reducing overall power losses by 12%. It is designed to integrate seamlessly with microgrids, solar power, gas generators, and lithium energy storage systems. The platform also includes intelligent energy management software that enables data center operators to participate in grid ancillary services and generate revenue through demand response.

The system covers a power range from 500 kW to 3 MW per unit, with parallel scalability up to 20 MW for large AI training clusters. Its prefabricated modular design reduces on-site deployment time by 60%, according to ABB. Early adopters include major U.S. cloud providers, which are conducting small-scale trials with plans to replace traditional low-voltage UPS systems in new campuses by 2027.

Goldman Sachs industry reports note that North American high-power UPS order backlogs now extend into 2028, with high-voltage architectures and DC power systems emerging as key infrastructure trends.