DATA CENTRES
Stage four builds on this with fully integrated DC architecture, combining advanced ultra-effi cient solid state transformer connected directly to 34.5V grids, DC-based UPS systems, and intelligent energy management. At this stage, total system effi ciencies approach 98 per cent, dramatically increasing the proportion of incoming power that can be used for compute.
While some operators will progress incrementally, leapfrogging intermediate stages entirely is ultimately more cost-effective and optimises operations. For data centres planned today, designing for 800V DC rather than preparing to retrofi t this architecture will likely prove the more effective approach.
SOLID STATE TRANSFORMERS: THE HOLY GRAIL OF DC ARCHITECTURE
At the core of this transition is the solid-state transformer (SST). Unlike conventional transformers, which are typically large, site-specifi c and limited in functionality, solid-state transformers will integrate conversion and control into a single, modular system. They are designed to connect directly to medium- voltage grid infrastructure and deliver high-voltage DC in a single step, eliminating multiple layers of conversion. Advancements in semiconductor materials, particularly silicon carbide, are enabling SSTs to operate at higher voltages with lower switching losses, improving effi ciency and performance. Beyond effi ciency gains, solid-state transformers
can offer additional advantages. Their modular design allows for faster manufacturing and deployment compared to traditional bespoke transformers, reducing lead times and enabling quicker time to operation. Built-in redundancy at the module level also enhances system resilience while ensuring no single point of failure. However, technical challenges remain. Although 800V DC architecture already exists in utility scale solar and electric vehicles, implementing this for SSTs is no easy feat. Directly interfacing with grid-level voltages, such as Europe’s 33kV grid or the 34.5KV grid in the U.S., without intermediate conversion stages is complex and requires much expertise in DC energy architecture.
IMPLICATIONS FOR THE GRID The benefi ts of DC architecture extend beyond the data centre itself. As power demand from AI infrastructure grows, concerns around grid capacity and stability are intensifying. In many regions, access to suffi cient power is already limiting data centre expansion. By improving energy effi ciency, DC-native systems enable operators to extract more compute from the same grid connection, reducing the need for additional capacity. Lower losses also translate into
reduced cooling requirements, further easing overall energy demand. In addition, integrating DC-based energy storage and intelligent control systems should allow data centres to interact with the grid more dynamically. DC UPS systems, for example, can act as a buffer, smoothing demand fl uctuations and mitigating the impact of sudden load changes.
OVERCOMING BARRIERS TO ADOPTION Despite the clear benefi ts, the transition to DC is not without challenges. First, there is the question of infrastructure change. Moving beyond early-stage retrofi ts requires replacing key components within the power chain, which can be complex. Second, regulatory frameworks for DC systems are
not yet fully mature. Standards for safety, certifi cation, and operation are still being developed, particularly for higher voltage levels. Finally, there is a skills gap, designing and deploying DC-native systems requires specialist expertise that is not yet widespread across the industry. However, these challenges are typical of any major technological shift and with the groundwork already being laid, solutions will soon appear.
THE TRANSITION TIMELINE This transition is already taking shape. 2026 is expected to see a few prototyping and early pilot deployments of DC architectures and solid-state transformers. By 2027, SSTs are expected to be commercially available and initial commercial projects should emerge. From 2028 onwards, as megawatt- scale AI racks become mainstream, DC infrastructure will need to scale rapidly to meet demand. Looking further ahead, the industry is already considering a future transition to 1500V DC systems. While this offers additional effi ciency gains, it introduces new technical and safety challenges that will need to be addressed through further innovation and standardisation.
THE INEVITABILITY OF EVOLUTION As AI continues to push the boundaries of power density, the limitations of traditional infrastructure are being reached. DC architecture offers a path to higher effi ciency, greater scalability and improved alignment with the needs of next-generation workloads. The question is no longer whether this transition will happen, but how quickly the industry can execute it. Data centres are the fi rst to face this challenge at scale, but they are unlikely to be the last. As the technology matures, the shift towards DC-native energy systems may prove to be far more widespread.
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September/October 2026 Irish Manufacturing 37
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