Power demands and the future of data centers

The demand on data centers is growing at an astonishing pace. Generative artificial intelligence (AI) andFigure 1: The total amount of power needed from data centers will nearly double from 17 GW in 2022 to 35 GW in 2030. Source: Anderson Power Products machine learning models require more power to train the AI models and perform inference operations. While hyperscale data centers currently require ~10 kw/14 kw output per rack, a 2024 Newmark report estimates that AI requirements will demand ~40 kw to 60 kw per rack. The report also indicates that the total amount of power needed from data centers will nearly double from 17 GW in 2022 to 35 GW in 2030.

To keep up with demand, new data centers are breaking ground at a rapid rate. Many are being constructed by some of the largest corporations on the globe. For example, Microsoft, BlackRock, Global Infrastructure Partnership (GAIIP) and MGX announced in fall 2024 that they would partner to raise $100 billion to invest in new data center developments.

Data centers are not just building bigger, either. Many companies are exploring new power distribution strategies. Some are adopting high-voltage DC power distribution, a strategy that can lead to increased efficiency by reducing the number of required AC-DC conversions. Others are leveraging high-powered AC alternatives to the traditional 415 V AC three-phase or 240 V AC single-phase distribution. Options like 480 V AC three-phase power and 277 V AC single-phase bring higher voltage directly to the PSU and offer multiple advantages, including space savings, increased efficiency and material cost reduction (since higher-gauge, thinner wires can be used).

ICT engineers and the need for versatile and compact equipment

Regardless of the chosen power distribution method, every data center requires equipment designed to handle their voltage and current specifications. The receptacle and power cord that connects the power distribution units (PDU) in the racks to the servers or provides input power to the server units is an example of a small — but crucial — piece of data center architecture.

These components must be rated for both the type of voltage (AC or DC) and the voltage magnitude — a somewhat complicated task for data centers that fall outside traditional 415 V AC configurations. Information and Communication Technology (ICT) equipment engineers working with DC-powered data centers often encounter issues finding DC-rated equipment and confront a lack of industry standards, while those in high-power AC data centers may have trouble finding connectors that take full advantage of 480 V power and avoid power losses from transformer conversions.

Another crucial consideration for modern data center equipment involves space-saving designs, particularly within developed markets where new construction cannot keep up with demand. For example, Northern Virginia's data center vacancy rate dropped from 1.8% in 2023 to 0.9% in 2024 — despite an 18% increase in inventory over the same period. In response to these challenges, data centers face increasing pressure to optimize rack space to meet demand.

One effective strategy involves adopting receptacles and power cords with a power density advantage — meaning they pack the most power within the smallest possible footprint. This advantage can be determined by comparing the connector’s IEC size to its AC current capabilities.

The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) formalized these sizes in its IEC-320 standard. Most data center rack-mounted power distribution units (PDUs) rely on C13/C14 sized connectors but — if more current is required — larger C19/C20 connectors can also be used. Standard C13/C14 connectors support 10 A to 15 A and 250 V, so any connector that provides greater power within that same footprint can be said to hold a power density advantage.

Saf-D-Grid: A powerful connection technology solution

Figure 2: The connector technology offers up to 7.2 times the power of a standard C13/C14 connector within the same amount of space. Source: Anderson Power ProductsSelecting the right connector that optimizes power density and versatility is a small but meaningful way to meet the power demands of the future. Anderson Power Products, an international leader in high power interconnect solutions, offers the Saf-D-Grid receptacle and power cord to meet this need.

Saf-D-Grid is UL-rated for disconnect up to 30 A, delivering an impressive power density advantage over the standard 10 A to 15 A. The connector technology offers up to 7.2 times the power of a standard C13/C14 connector within the same amount of space. Additionally, Saf-D-Grid is UL-rated for disconnect up to 400 V. Using Saf-D-Grid, data centers can take full advantage of 380 V DC or 480 V AC power and avoid the power losses inherent in transformer conversions.

The versatility of Saf-D-Grid is another key feature. The receptacle and power cord are compatible with data centers regardless of AC or DC power distribution, providing a quality option for those with rarer DC specifications. Saf-D-Grid also comfortably supports the growing number of data centers that rely on 277 V AC single-phase power. Most standard connectors only support up to 250 V AC.

Other features of Saf-D-Grid include:

· High thermal rating: Saf-D-Grid is perfect for hot-aisle environments with a thermal rating of up to 105° C, providing extra headroom for conducting current in higher ambient temperature environments. Most standard connectors only offer a 70° C rating.

• Integrated latch: A mechanical tab on the connector prevents accidental disconnects by requiring a button press to disengage, avoiding power loss to critical equipment.
• Hot-plug rated: Rated for current interruption for both electronic (capacitive) and electrical (resistive) loads.
• Ground contact: The ground pin is longer than the two live contacts to mate first and break connection last, providing the safety of an earthing path before engagement.
• Touch-safe/shock protection: Saf-D-Grid minimizes the risk of accidental contact with hazardous voltage by passing the UL and IEC finger probe (plug and receptacle) and 3 mm probe tests (receptacle).
• Connector housing: The connector features a long housing designed to contain arcs and enhance safety when disconnecting.

The Saf-D-Grid innovation story

Figure 3: Today, both AC and DC powered data centers around the world trust Saf-D-Grid to connect their ICT equipment efficiently. Source: Anderson Power ProductsSaf-D-Grid is the culmination of a proven history in data center power solutions. Anderson Power Products has led the industry since the introduction of its SB Series electrical connector in 1953. Saf-D-Grid was originally developed in 2011 for DC-powered data centers, and continues to provide an excellent appliance connector for 380 V DC power distribution. However, the Anderson Power Products team realized that Saf-D-Grid also offers significant power density advantages to AC powered data centers.

Today, both AC and DC powered data centers around the world — including in the U.S., Europe, China, the Middle East, Australia and more — trust Saf-D-Grid to connect their ICT equipment efficiently.

“We are determined to be a sustainable solution for our customers,” said David Beach, a product manager at Anderson Power Products. “We will soon be introducing more flexible power connections for DC and single and three phase AC power for datacenter applications, with an eye toward scalability as the demands from AI architecture increase.”

Moving data centers into the future

Today, ICT engineers are navigating two major challenges: the growing, AI-driven demand for power and the lack of rack space to meet that demand. Data centers are exploring new, high-power architectures — including DC power and 480 V AC three-phase power — to move into this future.

Even small improvements, such as optimizing the design of power cords and receptacles, can have an impact. Saf-D-Grid from Anderson Power delivers a powerful, versatile solution that fits within the footprint of a C13/C14 while supplying 7.2 times the power. Engineered for both AC and DC applications up to 30 A and 600 V, it meets the needs of today’s data centers while preparing for the demands of the future.

Discover how Saf-D-Grid can grow with data centers by visiting the Anderson Power Products website.