Applied Digital, a leader in next-generation data center development and operations, has teamed up with ABB to create cutting-edge infrastructure at its new 400 MW campus in North Dakota, USA. This collaboration aims to deliver energy-efficient and fast solutions tailored to the growing demands of artificial intelligence (AI) technology. The first orders for the partnership were placed in late 2024 and early 2025, although financial terms were not disclosed.
The key component of this partnership is the introduction of ABB’s HiPerGuard Medium Voltage Static Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS), a pioneering technology that enhances power density while reducing the size of electrical systems and improving energy efficiency. This innovation will drive the development of electrical infrastructure that supports the efficiency and reliability required by large-scale AI facilities.
In traditional data centers, low voltage power systems are the norm. However, the shift to medium voltage UPS and power distribution allows data centers to grow more efficiently in increments of 25 MW, with fewer components, simpler installations, and greater reliability. The higher voltage system reduces energy loss and heat generation, leading to improved overall energy efficiency.
Todd Gale, Chief Development Officer at Applied Digital, emphasized the transformative impact of the partnership: “With ABB’s advanced technology and global presence, we are changing the way large-scale data centers are designed, ensuring they meet the rising demands of AI-powered systems.”
Massimiliano Cifalitti, Smart Power President at ABB Electrification, added, “This collaboration accelerates the development of AI-ready data centers with more robust, competitive power solutions. Our technology is built for optimal performance, and our global production capabilities will ensure quick, large-scale delivery.”
ABB’s investment in next-gen medium voltage UPS technology is already proving beneficial, with early adopters in North America and Europe benefiting from enhanced power efficiency and higher density for AI, research, and large-scale data facilities. As AI continues to push the limits of data center power demands, ABB’s medium voltage UPS technology offers a path to a more efficient future.
ABB is a global leader in electrification and automation, helping industries become more sustainable and efficient. With over 140 years of history, ABB supports industries worldwide through innovative solutions that improve performance, productivity, and sustainability. The company has around 110,000 employees and is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange and Nasdaq Stockholm.
Applied Digital is focused on building and operating next-generation data centers tailored to support advanced compute, AI/ML, blockchain, and high-performance computing (HPC) workloads. Through its expertise and scalable infrastructure, Applied Digital is redefining digital hosting with solutions such as CSaaS and GPU-as-a-Service, helping power the future of AI and other high-performance technologies.
