A New kind of power box for AI data centers: Ampace and DG Matrix roll out a UL‑certified, grid‑active BESS with multi‑port SST

Partnership launched: a ready‑now, UL‑certified grid‑active BESS aimed at AI data centers

Ampace and DG Matrix announced a strategic partnership to deliver what they call the industry’s first UL‑certified, grid‑active battery energy storage system (BESS) that integrates a multi‑port solid‑state transformer (SST) architecture. The companies say the product is built for AI data centers and is commercially available immediately through initial customer agreements.

The headline here is a combination of two claims: the unit is UL‑certified for safety and code compliance, and it pairs a BESS with a multi‑port SST that can move power between the grid, batteries, and servers in a more flexible way than traditional systems. Ampace and DG Matrix are pitching this as a drop‑in option for facilities running heavy AI compute, where power quality and fast response matter as much as raw capacity.

Why AI data centers and grid‑interactive storage matter right now

AI workloads are changing how data centers use electricity. Large models and dense GPU racks draw steady, high power and can need short bursts of extra juice. That raises two problems for operators: the local distribution gear must handle big, fast swings, and the cost of running at peak draws can be high if grid charges or demand fees apply.

Grid‑interactive storage systems solve both problems by acting as a buffer. They can shave peaks, supply backup power, and provide services back to the grid such as frequency support. That makes them attractive to hyperscalers and colo providers who care about uptime and cost. Safety and standards matter too—UL certification speeds local permitting and makes large customers more comfortable deploying a new technology in mission‑critical rooms.

Market estimates vary, but the addressable market for power delivery and on‑site storage in larger data centers is large and growing quickly as AI adoption expands. Recent deals in the sector — from standalone BESS deployments to modular power upgrades — show providers and operators are actively seeking both resilience and operating cost gains.

Inside the product: how grid‑active storage with multi‑port SSTs works

At its simplest, “grid‑active” means the storage system can talk to the grid and make decisions to help both the facility and the wider network. It isn’t just a backup battery that sits idle until a blackout; it can charge or discharge to follow price signals, reduce peak demand, or provide fast response services the grid sometimes pays for.

The multi‑port solid‑state transformer is the technical wildcard here. Unlike a conventional transformer and separate switchgear, an SST uses power electronics to create multiple, controllable AC and DC ports in one module. That lets a single unit route power from the grid to batteries, from batteries directly to racks, or between multiple microgrids inside a site with much greater precision. For AI data centers, that can mean lower losses, finer voltage control, and faster switching when a rack needs sudden power.

Operational benefits are practical: better efficiency reduces electricity losses; modularity lets operators scale capacity in blocks instead of a forklift upgrade; and latency in power switching is lower, which matters when GPUs shift into high‑draw states. The UL stamp matters because it signals the design meets established safety and performance standards, simplifying adoption at sites that have strict inspection and permitting rules.

How the companies plan to sell it and what it means for revenues

Ampace and DG Matrix say they will go to market through direct sales to hyperscalers and colocation operators and via channel partners that handle site integration. That mix makes sense: large cloud players will want custom deals, while smaller colo firms will use system integrators to drop the solution into existing halls.

Near‑term revenue hinges on a few things. First, the pace of customer pilots and early contracts. The partnership claims immediate commercial availability, which can translate into early orders if the buyers see operational upside and the integration path is clear. Second, supply chain scale—SSTs involve advanced semiconductors and power modules, and the partners will need a steady parts flow to move beyond pilot scale. Third, manufacturing and installation capacity: rolling out at many sites requires repeatable production and field teams trained on the new architecture.

Financially, outcomes range from modest pilot revenue to more material bookings if several hyperscalers adopt the design. Given the typical size of utility‑grade BESS projects and the premium for integrated power conversion, even a handful of large contracts could move the needle for smaller suppliers. That said, significant revenue growth depends on scaling production and winning repeatable deals with big customers.

What investors and industry pros should watch next

This announcement is sensible and timely, but it sits in a crowded, competitive field. Established UPS and BESS makers, power electronics firms, and modular infrastructure startups are all racing to serve data centers and grid services. Key things to watch:

• Customer wins and reference sites: real deployments at large data centers will validate claims and accelerate sales.
• Timing and volume of deliveries: scaling from a handful of installs to dozens shows supply‑chain and manufacturing muscle.
• Performance data: real‑world metrics on efficiency gains, switching latency, and uptime will determine whether the SST advantage holds up under load.
• Regulatory and permitting hurdles: UL certification helps, but local codes and interconnection rules can still slow rollouts.
• Competitive responses: bigger vendors may counter with price or integrated service offers that blunt the partners’ share gains.

Overall, this partnership looks like a plausible step forward rather than a market‑redefining breakthrough. For investors, the setup is cautiously positive: the product addresses a clear need and has a certification that eases adoption, but commercial upside depends on execution, supply scaling, and customer validation. Treat near‑term gains as dependent on concrete deployments and watch the first reference projects closely—those will be the fastest signal of whether this is a niche innovation or the start of a broader shift in how AI data centers manage power.

Sources

• prnewswire.com