ABB Has Unveiled an AI-Ready Power System for Data Centres

ABB has introduced a next-generation low-voltage power distribution solution designed to strengthen the electrical backbone of AI-ready data centres. 

The updated MNS switchgear integrates the new SACE Emax 3 air circuit breaker, providing an intelligent, space-efficient solution that helps operators manage rising energy loads while minimising the risk of outages.

Unveiled at Data Center World Asia in Singapore, the system targets operators facing growing energy demands as global capacity is expected to rise from 80GW in 2024 to more than 220GW by 2030.

ABB’s latest launch focuses on improving the reliability and resilience of critical infrastructure as the data centre sector undergoes rapid AI-driven transformation.

“AI deployment depends on robust, future-ready electrification technology,” says Nicole Koeppen, Head of Low Voltage Systems at ABB Electrification. 

“Millions of MNS switchgear panels are installed around the world, making it the benchmark solution for operators looking to build their AI infrastructure on solid foundations. The new Emax 3 adds new capabilities that futureproof data centres for the complex power demands of the AI transition.”

Power resilience for AI-era infrastructure

As AI workloads grow in scale and complexity, data centres must handle higher computational power with tighter reliability standards.

ABB’s new system addresses these needs by embedding intelligence into the switchgear itself, reducing the need for separate monitoring tools and increasing the accuracy of power data collection.

The MNS switchgear, long established as a standard for global data centres, now integrates the Emax 3 circuit breaker to provide enhanced sensing and analytical capability.

This design supports continuous operation by identifying and mitigating potential electrical issues before they disrupt services.

According to ABB, the Emax 3’s real-time data monitoring delivers actionable insights into electrical system health, power consumption and environmental conditions.

This allows engineers to plan targeted maintenance and optimise energy use, reducing downtime risks and operational costs.

The integration also offers advanced diagnostics that enhance situational awareness within the electrical infrastructure.

By processing detailed analytics on load balance, voltage stability and temperature fluctuations, the system gives data centre operators deeper control over how energy is distributed across racks and server clusters.

Cybersecure, intelligent and adaptive design

With cybersecurity now a priority for all mission-critical environments, ABB has ensured that the Emax 3 circuit breaker meets international standards for secure operation.

It is the first circuit breaker to achieve IEC62443 SL2 cybersecurity certification, providing safeguards that restrict access to authorised personnel and reduce the likelihood of human error.

The breaker also features an integrated power quality analyser, enabling continuous assessment of key parameters such as voltage distortion, harmonic levels and system stability.

This level of visibility supports consistent uptime and protects sensitive AI infrastructure from fluctuations in power quality that can affect performance.

Emax 3’s adaptive intelligence means that data centres can better align power distribution with AI workloads that fluctuate throughout the day.

By combining protection, control and monitoring in one system, ABB’s solution eliminates the need for separate subsystems, creating a smaller footprint and simplified maintenance framework.

The new design reflects the increasing emphasis on both efficiency and safety as data centres evolve to accommodate energy-intensive AI applications.

With power demand now a central challenge for operators, integrated systems like MNS with Emax 3 provide a clear pathway toward smarter, more secure electrical infrastructure.

Supporting global data centre growth

ABB’s launch comes at a time when the global data centre industry faces mounting pressure to expand capacity while managing sustainability goals.

The company estimates that low voltage distribution technology will play a crucial role in meeting these challenges, offering the control and flexibility required for next-generation AI facilities.

By combining intelligent monitoring with industry-certified cybersecurity and high energy efficiency, ABB positions the MNS switchgear with Emax 3 as a foundation for future data centre power systems.

The technology builds on ABB’s global experience delivering resilient electrification solutions at scale, and will help customers adapt their facilities for the next wave of digital and AI expansion.

As the sector prepares for exponential growth in AI processing requirements, ABB’s latest innovation marks a major step in developing smarter electrical systems capable of powering the world’s most advanced data centres securely and sustainably.