UK First as AI Power Infrastructure Takes a Major Step Forward

The rapid growth of artificial intelligence is placing unprecedented demands on data centre infrastructure, particularly when it comes to reliable, high-capacity power. In response, a major new project is setting a UK first and signalling how the sector is evolving to support high-density AI workloads.

ABB is working in partnership with Ark Data Centres to install the UK’s first medium-voltage uninterruptible power supply (UPS) system designed specifically for AI-driven environments. This technology represents a significant shift from traditional low-voltage UPS systems, offering improved efficiency, scalability, and resilience for power-hungry computing applications.

AI workloads require vast amounts of processing power, often concentrated into smaller physical spaces. This creates higher power densities and places increased pressure on electrical infrastructure to deliver continuous, stable energy without interruption. Medium-voltage UPS systems are designed to meet this challenge by handling larger loads more efficiently, reducing energy losses, and improving overall system reliability.

For data centre operators, this kind of infrastructure is becoming essential. As demand for AI services accelerates across industries—from finance and healthcare to research and digital services—facilities must be able to scale quickly while maintaining uptime and energy efficiency. The introduction of medium-voltage UPS technology helps future-proof data centres, ensuring they can support next-generation computing without compromising performance or resilience.

This collaboration between ABB and Ark Data Centres highlights how the UK is positioning itself at the forefront of advanced digital infrastructure. By investing in innovative power solutions, the sector is laying the foundations needed to support AI growth, strengthen energy efficiency, and meet the evolving demands of a more data-driven economy.