ABB and BCG Report Backs Hybrid AC/DC Power for AI Data Centers

Sep 9, 2026
A report from ABB and Boston Consulting Group says AI computing, electrification and renewable energy are increasing demand for direct current power systems.

ABB and Boston Consulting Group published a report on hybrid alternating current and direct current power systems, ABB said in a press release. The report says AI computing, electrification and renewable energy are increasing the role of direct current technology, while alternating current will remain central to transmission and regional distribution networks.

Solar systems, batteries, electric vehicles, AI data centers and many industrial automation systems operate on direct current. The report says reducing power conversion steps can improve efficiency, increase usable grid capacity and simplify integration.

The report identifies 800 VDC distribution as an emerging architecture for AI infrastructure, where it can increase computing capacity within constrained grid connections. It lists fragmented standards and a shortage of skills specific to direct current systems as the main barriers to wider use.

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