Schneider Electric has launched a new R&D data center in Massachusetts.
The company held a ribbon cutting this week to mark the opening of new data center and microgrid research laboratories at its Global R&D Center in Andover.
The new labs are a part of €2.26 billion ($2.4 billion) investment that the company made globally in 2024 to support research and development.
Schneider said the new spaces will enable researchers to test fully functioning microgrids under real-world conditions, allowing it to better design and deliver microgrids for its customers.
Launched around 2014, Andover is one of five R&D Centers operated by the company. The site totals 40 labs across 53,000 sq ft (4,924 sqm).
The new 6,000-square-foot Power Distribution Unit (PDU) laboratory contains three testing bays and allows researchers to test the company’s high-powered voltage systems. The data center lab also features high-voltage test stations and 3D-printing stations.
The 1,500-square-foot microgrid laboratory includes four 90kW grid simulators and three 45kW solar simulators.
“As AI revolutionizes industries and consumers demand more data for digital services, the need for data centers continues to rapidly expand,” said Pankaj Sharma, EVP, data centers and networks at Schneider Electric. “Additionally, industrial environments, businesses, municipalities, hospitals, and schools are seeking resilient solutions for their energy needs, and microgrids offer a terrific solution. These new R&D labs will help us deliver future-proof, reliable, and efficient energy solutions to our customers.”
The microgrid lab has already reportedly helped Schneider with the deployment of several microgrids, including JFK Airport’s New Terminal One project and Bimbo Bakeries’ facilities in California.
