Siemens, Compass sign multi-year agreement for custom integrated data delivery unit

Compass Datacenters, which designs and constructs data center campuses for some of the world’s largest technology companies, has signed a multi-year capacity agreement with Siemens to supply a custom modular medium-voltage skid solution. The solution consolidates the capabilities of multiple electrical components, including medium-voltage switchgear and transformers, into a single integrated unit which will enable Compass to build faster and at a lower total cost. The agreement guarantees delivery of up to 1,500 units over the next five years.

This innovative design, developed by Siemens and Compass, dramatically reduces the time required to install critical power systems, enabling faster data center delivery during an era of unprecedented demand. Driven by the advancement of artificial intelligence (AI), continued progression of cloud computing, and the explosive growth of global data, the data center market is projected to grow by double digits through 2030.

Siemens will deliver prefabricated modular units that include maintenance-free 8DJH 36 gas-insulated arc-resistant medium-voltage switchgear and transformers. Conserving resources, the design of the switchgear reduces the need for maintenance and extends the service life of the equipment, while the compact design increases energy efficiency in operations. The custom skid solution creates a simplified and standardized design for easy deployment across a variety of environments.

“Tools like artificial intelligence and cloud services provide great opportunities as well as some challenges in terms of the scale of growth,” says Brian Dula, Region CEO of the Electrification and Automation business at Siemens Smart Infrastructure USA. “At Siemens we are ‘productizing’ the critical components necessary so companies like Compass can build new data centers faster while reducing on-site work and costs. It is the prefabrication, modular, and fungible design of our technology that provides the bedrock needed to meet the demand the industry is calling for.”

Compass builds data center campuses for the world’s largest hyperscalers, with sites throughout the globe. Heavy reliance on off-site manufacturing and modular means of construction provides Compass with the unique ability to deliver large-scale data centers in as few as nine months, which is critical in this era of high demand.

“This solution is a powerful example of what this partnership will deliver to Compass customers in the years to come,” says Jared Day, President and Chief Financial Officer, Compass Datacenters. “The 8DJH 36 solution delivers major efficiency and sustainability advantages that align with Compass’ strategic anchors and accelerates our timeline for projects.”

The first installation of this solution will be at Compass’ new data center campus being developed on the former site of Sears’ headquarters in the Chicago area and is slated to break ground in the second half of 2025. Siemens’ factory-certified service personnel will offer commissioning and installation support to ensure seamless integration of the modular solution across all projects.