Dynamic Modeling of a Data Center for Power System Stability Studies

Data centers play a pivotal role in supporting digital transformation. However, they are among the most energy-intensive infrastructures as a result of increasing global computing load over the years. As data center power consumption continues to increase, examining their dynamic performance and interaction with the electrical grid is essential to enhance efficiency and ensure grid stability. This paper presents a comprehensive dynamic model of a 10 MW data center, incorporating 44,250 servers with a tandem hybrid heating ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) system to simulate real-world data center under varying workloads. The developed model is validated using experimental data that demonstrate high accuracy in predicting server power consumption, heat generation, and dynamic temperature. Furthermore, to verify the fidelity of the model to operate in dynamic power systems, the data center model is connected to WSCC 9-bus test system to analyze the impact of various grid disturbances on the data center operations, such as load variations and three-phase short-circuit faults. The model can be scaled up and is valuable for improving the accuracy of dynamic stability analysis of power systems under high integration of data center load. In addition, the model is proposed to provide a practical framework for assessing compliance with fault ride-through (FRT) requirements and enabling demand response participation.