How Siemens’ Intelligent Building Systems Serve Data Centres

As demand for compute linked to AI increases, operators are facing constraints linked to power density, uptime and operational control. 

In response, Siemens is developing intelligent building systems that connect power distribution, safety and digital monitoring within data centres. Siemens Smart Infrastructure is aligning its portfolio to address these pressures through integrated systems that link electrical infrastructure with building technologies.

Through partnerships and product development, Siemens is positioning intelligent building systems as a framework that connects energy, safety and operational data. This approach is visible in its work with Rittal on power distribution and in its fire safety portfolio designed for connected environments.

Power density drives system change

AI data centres are operating at power densities exceeding 100kW per rack, with projections indicating levels could reach more than 1MW. This shift requires changes to how facilities manage power, cooling and heat.

Siemens is addressing this through system design that places power infrastructure closer to compute. The aim is to reduce transmission complexity and enable faster deployment of capacity. Intelligent building systems in this context extend beyond building management to include electrical architecture and its integration with digital monitoring.

The pressure on operators is not limited to scale. AI workloads require consistency in power delivery, while downtime has direct cost implications. Systems therefore need to support continuous operation and visibility across assets. Siemens’ approach links infrastructure components with data layers that allow operators to monitor performance and respond to changes in demand.

This integration reflects a broader shift where building systems are no longer separate from IT infrastructure. Instead, they operate as part of a combined environment where energy, compute and safety systems exchange data.

Standardised infrastructure with Rittal

Siemens’ partnership with Friedhelm Loh Group and its largest company Rittal focuses on creating a standardised approach to power distribution within data centres. The collaboration targets markets aligned with International Electrotechnical Commission standards, enabling deployment across multiple regions.

Together, the companies are developing infrastructure designed to reduce construction timelines and support modular deployment. By aligning components from Siemens with Rittal’s platforms, the system enables a consistent approach to power distribution across facilities.

Prof. Friedhelm Loh, Owner and CEO of the Friedhelm Loh Group, said: “We have a long-standing collaboration with Siemens in a number of fields. We are proud to be taking our partnership to the next level. Both companies are driven by the desire to innovate. As technology leaders, we have a responsibility to keep strengthening our customers' competitiveness with the latest technologies.”

The partnership reflects a move towards repeatable infrastructure models. Instead of designing each facility from the ground up, operators can deploy systems based on predefined configurations. This approach supports scaling while maintaining consistency in performance and compliance.

Standardisation also affects operational processes. With aligned systems, maintenance and upgrades can be carried out using common frameworks, reducing complexity for operators managing multiple sites.

Sidecar power in white space

One of the initial developments from the Siemens and Rittal partnership is the introduction of a “sidecar” power rack. This system places power distribution units directly within the white space of the data centre.

By bundling power electronics into a dedicated rack, the system supplies server cabinets with localised power. This reduces the distance between power source and compute, which can improve efficiency and simplify layouts.

The sidecar model also supports modular deployment. Operators can add capacity by installing additional units alongside server racks, aligning power infrastructure with compute expansion. This approach is suited to environments where demand fluctuates or grows in phases.

The system also aligns with Open Compute Project standards, enabling compatibility with existing architectures. Integration with Rittal’s RiLineX and Ri4Power platforms supports deployment and operation within established frameworks.

Andreas Matthé, CEO of Electrical Products at Siemens Smart Infrastructure, says: “To enable the rapid growth of AI, we need smart, reliable and scalable power supply solutions for data centres – and we need them quickly. In combination with our innovative electrical products and solutions, Rittal is an ideal partner when it comes to speed and standardisation in infrastructure.”

This model reflects a shift towards distributed power architecture within data centres. Instead of centralised systems, power is delivered closer to the point of use, enabling flexibility and reducing constraints linked to traditional layouts.

Connected fire safety systems

Alongside power infrastructure, Siemens is advancing fire safety as part of intelligent building systems. Its Sinteso Nova and Cerberus Nova detectors are designed to operate as connected devices within a wider digital environment.

These systems move fire detection from periodic inspection to continuous monitoring. Through IoT connectivity, detectors carry out self-checks and provide data to central platforms. This allows facility teams to monitor conditions in real time and respond to potential risks.

In data centres, where electrical systems operate continuously, fire risk is linked to overheating and equipment failure. Detection systems therefore need to identify issues early without interrupting operations. Siemens’ approach integrates detection with monitoring tools that provide visibility across the facility.

The detectors are compatible with cloud-based applications such as Building X Fire Apps. This enables remote diagnostics and predictive maintenance, allowing teams to address issues before they affect operations.

Peter Nebiker, Head of Fire Safety at Siemens Smart Infrastructure Buildings, said: “The launch of our Sinteso Nova and Cerberus Nova fire detection portfolio is a game-changer in ensuring all alarms are accurate as best as possible.

“By moving from periodic checks to continuous, data-driven, self-supervising systems, we’re laying the foundation for truly human-centric, autonomous buildings. By automating testing, delivering real-time insights and enabling remote action, these solutions protect people while freeing up staff to focus on strategic priorities. This shift isn’t just about innovation – it’s about smarter, safer and more efficient operations.”

The integration of fire safety into digital systems reflects the broader role of intelligent building systems. Safety is no longer a standalone function but part of a connected environment that supports decision-making.

Data-driven building operations

A central element of Siemens’ approach is the use of data to manage building systems. Through connected devices and platforms, operators gain access to information on system performance, energy use and safety conditions.

This data enables predictive maintenance, where issues are identified before failure occurs. In data centres, this can reduce downtime and extend the life of equipment. It also supports planning, allowing operators to align infrastructure with demand.

The use of cloud connectivity allows data to be shared across teams and locations. For organisations managing multiple facilities, this provides a unified view of operations. It also supports standardisation, as systems can be configured and monitored using common tools.

In data centres, autonomy is linked to reliability. Systems that can monitor and adjust themselves reduce the risk of failure and support continuous operation. This is particularly relevant as facilities scale to meet demand from AI and digital services.

The integration of power, safety and digital systems forms the basis of this approach. By connecting these elements, Siemens is creating an environment where intelligent building systems support operational goals rather than acting as separate components.

Intelligent building systems therefore act as a layer that connects physical infrastructure with digital services. This includes power distribution, fire safety and other building functions. By linking these elements, Siemens is enabling a more coordinated approach to facility management.

The compatibility of new systems with existing infrastructure also supports adoption. Siemens’ fire detection portfolio, for example, allows upgrades without replacing entire systems. This approach reduces disruption and supports gradual implementation of new technologies.

Towards autonomous buildings

Siemens is positioning intelligent building systems as a step towards autonomous buildings. In this model, systems operate with a level of independence, using data to manage performance and respond to changes.

Automation plays a role in this transition. Self-checking systems, remote diagnostics and integrated platforms reduce the need for manual intervention. At the same time, operators retain oversight through dashboards and alerts.