Power consumption in data centers has surged dramatically, rising from tens of kilowatts to as much as 200 kilowatts within just a few years. This significant increase has prompted developers to innovate in their designs for future facilities capable of managing such massive energy demands.
As traditional low-voltage electrical cables become bulkier and more heat-generating at these scales, Veir—an innovative startup backed by Microsoft—has stepped in with a solution. The company is set to launch a revolutionary cable system designed to transport 3 megawatts of low-voltage electricity directly within data centers.
To validate their technology, Veir has constructed a simulated data center near its headquarters in Massachusetts, where they will pilot these advanced superconducting cables in real-world data centers next year. Full commercialization is anticipated by 2027, according to company spokesperson Heidel.
Superconductors are unique materials that offer the ability to conduct electricity without any energy loss; however, they require cooling to extremely low temperatures. Previously, Veir focused on enhancing capacity for long-range transmission lines, a domain where utility companies tend to be slow in adopting new technologies.
Heidel noted, “The pace at which the data center community is moving, evolving, growing, scaling, and tackling challenges is far higher than that of the transmission community.” This accelerated demand is compelling data centers to seek immediate solutions for their energy interconnection issues.
Veir has adapted its previously developed technology for transmission lines to cater to the specific low-voltage requirements of data centers. By sourcing superconductors from established suppliers, the cables are encased in jackets that maintain the liquid nitrogen coolant necessary to achieve -196˚ C (-321˚ F). Transitioning from superconductors to conventional copper cables is managed through integrated termination boxes.
According to Veir, these new cables take up to 20 times less space compared to standard copper wiring while offering the capability to transmit power five times further. Heidel emphasized, “The AI and data center community is keenly searching for solutions today, facing immense competitive pressure to remain at the cutting edge.”
Key Points:
– Surge in data center power consumption has prompted innovative design solutions.
– Veir’s superconducting cables will carry 3 megawatts of low-voltage electricity.
– A simulated data center in Massachusetts is demonstrating the technology.
– Commercial launch is expected by 2027.
– Superconductors can conduct electricity without energy loss, requiring extreme cooling.
– These cables occupy significantly less physical space while extending power transmission distance.
