Microsoft is exploring advanced high-temperature superconductors (HTS) as a potential game-changer for power efficiency in their data centers. These superconductors offer the promise of nearly lossless power delivery due to their ability to eliminate electrical resistance when maintained at cryogenic temperatures. Unlike conventional copper or aluminum wires, HTS can carry higher power densities without the accompanying heat losses.

Alistair Speirs, General Manager of Azure infrastructure, highlighted the potential benefits of HTS systems, noting their ability to overcome the constraints of traditional power systems which require extensive infrastructure expansions. By reducing the spatial footprint needed for power distribution, HTS technology could lead to more compact and environmentally friendly data centers.

Currently, Microsoft’s investment in HTS is still in the early stages, as the cost and availability of superconducting materials present challenges. Microsoft has partnered with Veir, an HTS power delivery firm, which demonstrated promising results with a 3-megawatt transmission in a simulated environment. However, commercial deployment remains a distant goal.

While the technology holds potential for a paradigm shift in data center power management, Speirs cautions that further testing and validation are needed to build confidence in HTS systems. Although Microsoft remains optimistic about future implementation, widespread commercial application is not expected any time soon.