This presentation examines the challenges and opportunities associated with modeling modern and next-generation data center power systems in response to the rapid growth of AI-driven computing demand. It discusses key characteristics of large-scale data center facilities, including increasing power density, fast-changing load behavior, stringent reliability requirements, and the growing use of power electronic interfaces. The presentation reviews the major components that influence electrical system behavior, including uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), cooling systems, AI workloads, and co-located energy storage. It also highlights the modeling challenges created by limited standardization, the lack of mature generic models, and difficulties obtaining detailed equipment data. The session demonstrates how real-time simulation can be used to evaluate system performance, validate protection and control schemes, assess grid interactions, and mitigate operational risks. In addition, the presentation explores emerging 800 VDC data center architectures and the role of solid-state transformers (SSTs) in improving efficiency and scalability. New RTDS modeling capabilities for data centers and SST applications are presented, along with example simulation results that illustrate the value of real-time simulation in supporting the design, validation, and operation of evolving data center power systems.
Presented by: Sumek Elimban, RTDS Technologies