ABB and Ark Data Centres power UK's first AI data centre

With an installed capacity of 25MVA, the project sets a new benchmark for efficiency, reliability, and readiness for high-density AI computing.

Ark Data Centres, one of the UK’s leading data centre operators, has been among the first to adopt ABB’s unique, new AI-ready medium voltage power architecture, which integrates the grid connection and UPS, running them all at medium voltage to meet AI’s power demands. Ark partnered with ABB and JCA on the project.

"AI is accelerating data centre growth and intensifying the pressure to deliver capacity that is efficient, resilient, and sustainable. With ABB, we’ve delivered a first-of-its-kind solution that positions Ark to meet these challenges while supporting the UK’s digital future," said Andy Garvin, COO at Ark Data Centres.

The deployment supports Ark’s planned scale-up, including capacity for next-generation GPUs, designed for large-scale AI training and inference. Delivering trillions of computations per second, this level of compute enables high-throughput digital services across sectors - from research and healthcare to finance, media, and entertainment - and requires robust, efficient electrical infrastructure.

"We’re helping data centres design from day one for emerging AI workloads. Our medium voltage UPS technology is AI-ready and a critical step in meeting the power demands of future high-density racks," explained Stephen Gibbs, UK distribution solutions marketing and sales director, ABB Electrification. 

"Delivered as a single turnkey solution, we are supporting today’s latest technology - and futureproofing for tomorrow’s megawatt-powered servers. ABB’s new medium voltage data centre architecture integrates HiPerGuard, the industry’s first solid-state medium voltage UPS, with its UniGear MV switchgear and Zenon ZEE600 control system into a single, end-to-end system. This turnkey approach eliminates interface risks and streamlines coordination across design, installation, and commissioning."

The solution can deliver up to 25 MVA of conditioned power. The system achieves 98% efficiency under heavy load and opens up valuable floor space for AI computing racks. By stabilising power at the MV level, the solution also reduces the need for frequent generator intervention and lowers energy losses that translate into excess heat and noise. This supports Ark’s goals of operating cleaner, more sustainable facilities while minimising the environmental impact of high-density 25MVA digital infrastructure.

"Delivering a project of this scale brings challenges; Having one partner responsible for the switchgear, UPS, and controls reduced complexity and helped keep the programme on track. Working alongside ABB, we were able to coordinate the installation and commissioning effectively, so that Ark could benefit from the new system without delays or risks," stated Steve Hill, divisional contracts director, JCA. 

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