Artificial intelligence will continue to transform how data centers are designed, built, and operated, placing new demands on energy systems, infrastructure, and reliability. As AI workloads grow more intensive and always‑on, meeting these challenges will require a coordinated, systems‑level approach.

In this episode, Patrick Hughes, SVP of Technical and Industry Affairs at the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) will explore the AI Data Center Energy Performance Framework, developed in collaboration with ASHRAE and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. The Framework provides practical, expert‑driven guidance to help owners, operators, engineers, and policymakers navigate the evolving AI landscape.

He will provide an overview of why the Framework was created and how it is intended to be used. With thousands of data centers already operating—and many more planned—AI will drive higher load densities and increase pressure on both facilities and the grid. The Framework offers a shared foundation to align energy performance, reliability, and resilience across the full lifecycle of a data center.

The conversation will also highlight NEMA’s role in ensuring electrical systems are fully integrated into data center design. Power distribution, safety, and infrastructure will need to work seamlessly with cooling and thermal management to avoid operational risks and support long‑term performance.

A key theme of this Framework is collaboration. By bringing together NEMA’s leadership in electrical infrastructure, ASHRAE’s expertise in building systems, and PNNL’s energy research capabilities, the Framework will bridge traditional silos and promote a more integrated approach.

We will also discuss how the Framework supports both new builds and existing facilities, helping organizations modernize infrastructure to meet AI demands. As a living, evolving resource, it will adapt alongside rapid changes in technology and energy needs. He’ll also explore what it means for communities and policymakers as data center growth accelerates—offering a path to balance innovation with reliability, efficiency, and long‑term infrastructure planning.

Designing the Future of AI Data Centers: Power, Performance, and Reliability

The Data Center Frontier Show

Designing the Future of AI Data Centers: Power, Performance, and Reliability