Data centers become "killer application" for new power transformer tech
Summary
Ars Technica reports that data centers are driving interest in solid-state transformers (SSTs), a new power-transformer technology that uses high-frequency semiconductors to enable mass production and DC power architectures. The NC State demonstration, in collaboration with EPRI and the New York Power Authority, shows a 1 MW SST in a shipping-container test setup, highlighting potential benefits like smaller size, modular upgrades, and reduced copper use, with implications for EV charging and grid upgrades. While SSTs promise efficiency and interoperability gains, engineering and commercialization challenges remain before mass adoption.