Article
May 6, 2026
Data center interconnection simplified: A cost-effective solution for uninterruptable power
In a new whitepaper, our experts explore upcoming interconnection requirements and show how a modified uninterruptable power supply (UPS) configuration can serve as a compliance solution for modern data centers.
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Chandana Karawita
Senior Technical Manger, System Studies & System Analysis
The rise in demand for gigawatt-scale data centers has created major challenges for interconnection utilities around the world. With behind-the-meter solutions have been a fix for long interconnection queues, most data centers will need to connect to the power grid. These large-load interconnections have introduced new grid-code requirements and pushed power stability and reliability to the brink.
While battery energy storage systems and e-STATCOMs are being explored as possible solutions to this large-load issue, our experts have proposed a better approach.
“What we propose is a reconfiguration of the UPS system that would provide stability from both the grid- and load-side converters and pair with a continuously running battery to prevent any fluctuations in power availability,” explains lead author Dr. Chandana Karawita. “This configuration allows for much better control of active and reactive power without having external devices, instead achieving it with typical control functions used in converters.”
Figure 1. Proposed UPS configuration
How the configuration works
Although battery energy storage systems and e-STATCOMs are being considered to tackle large-load issues, we offer a different perspective. Our experts propose a reconfiguration of the UPS system, enabling stabilization from both grid- and load-side converters. Paired with a continuously running battery, this arrangement helps prevent power fluctuations.
In practical terms, the load-side converter manages voltage and frequency regulation, while the grid-side converter smooths power output—preventing significant fluctuations. The battery DC/DC converter corrects any power mismatches between the two converters, ensuring consistent power delivery.
To demonstrate viability, the experts developed a test system featuring an AI data center training load profile with a peak load of about 100 MW. The UPS model had a total rated power of 120 MW, supported by a battery with a total capacity of 120 MWh (one hour of rated power supply). The grid-side converter operated in GFL mode, with both active power control and reactive power control (Q = 0).
