High-Temperature Superconductors Could Redefine Data Center Power Density

"Microsoft is exploring how this technology could make electrical grids stronger and reduce the impact datacenters have on nearby communities. Because superconductors take up less space to move large amounts of power, they could help us build cleaner, more compact systems."

"HTS cables, however, are made of superconducting materials that are cooled to cryogenic temperatures. Once cooled, the current can move without resistance. This eliminates line losses and heat buildup. It also makes it possible for pow[er transmission efficiency improvements]."

"According to the US Energy Information Administration (EIA), 5% of generated electricity in the US is lost as part of the transmission and distribution process. In some parts of the world, such losses are much higher."

AI data centers require massive amounts of energy, straining global power grids despite $483 billion in grid investments. The US loses 5% of generated electricity during transmission and distribution, with higher losses in other regions. Microsoft is investing in high-temperature superconductor (HTS) technology to address this challenge. HTS cables, cooled to cryogenic temperatures, allow electricity to flow with zero resistance, eliminating transmission losses and heat generation. Unlike traditional copper and aluminum conductors that lose efficiency through resistance, superconducting materials enable more power to move through smaller, more compact systems. Microsoft collaborates with technology vendors and system integrators to develop scalable, real-world solutions that strengthen electrical grids and reduce data center environmental impact.

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