Artificial intelligence (AI) continues to transform the data center industry, with Vertiv, a global provider of digital infrastructure solutions, identifying significant trends expected to emerge in 2025. These include innovations in cooling and power systems, a heightened focus on sustainability, and evolving cybersecurity measures to address new risks.
“With AI driving rack densities into three- and four-digit kilowatts, the need for advanced solutions to power and cool those racks, minimize environmental impacts, and enable AI Factories has never been more pressing,” Giordano Albertazzi, CEO of Vertiv, said in a statement. “We anticipate major progress in 2025, driven by customer demand.”
Cooling and power systems adapt to AI needs
The growing use of AI is intensifying pressure on data center cooling and power systems. High-performance computing workloads, especially those using GPUs, demand innovative solutions like cold-plate and immersion cooling to handle higher heat output. Liquid cooling systems are also expected to integrate more directly with servers, streamlining manufacturing and improving efficiency.
AI racks require power systems capable of managing rapid fluctuations in load, necessitating hybrid cooling configurations and high-density uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems. This shift is influencing enterprise data centers, not just large-scale cloud providers.
Energy efficiency
As global energy demand from data centers increases, concerns about overburdened power grids and rising carbon emissions are mounting. According to Vertiv, data centers currently consume 1-2% of the world’s electricity, but projections indicate this could rise to 3-4% by 2030, largely due to AI.
“Organizations are seeking energy-efficient solutions more than ever,” Albertazzi said. “From microgrid deployments to alternative energy sources like fuel cells and new battery chemistries, the industry is racing to meet these challenges.”
The use of small modular reactors for large-scale energy needs is also being explored, though availability is anticipated later in the decade.
AI Factory development
With the advent of AI Factory racks consuming up to 1,000 kW or more, industry collaboration is becoming critical. Chipmakers, data center operators, and power and cooling manufacturers are increasingly working together to support AI adoption. Transparent roadmaps and AI-driven tools are streamlining design and manufacturing processes, ensuring infrastructure can keep up with rapid advancements.
Vertiv noted AI is both aiding and complicating cybersecurity efforts. Cybercriminals are leveraging AI to launch more sophisticated attacks, targeting vulnerable systems within data centers.
“As attacks grow more frequent and complex, we must innovate our defenses using AI,” said Paul Churchill, vice president and general manager of Vertiv Asia.
Best practices like layered defenses and diligent monitoring remain key, but data center operators will need advanced AI tools to stay ahead of evolving threats.
Regulations
Governments worldwide are increasingly looking into AI applications and their environmental impact. Sovereign AI projects and regulatory frameworks, such as the European Union’s Artificial Intelligence Act, reflect growing efforts to manage AI’s influence. These regulations could extend to how data centers consume energy and resources, emphasizing sustainability.
“AI adoption is accelerating across Asia Pacific,” Churchill said. “Our 2025 trends underline the urgent need for energy-efficient infrastructure to unlock AI’s potential. At Vertiv, we are committed to helping our customers address these challenges.”