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Testing and Certification of Prefabricated Modular Power Distribution Assemblies

Evaluate prefabricated modular power distribution assemblies intended for data centers and integrated power distribution systems to UL 2140:2026.
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The rapid growth of data centers, driven in part by artificial intelligence (AI) workloads and increasing power demands, is accelerating the adoption of prefabricated power infrastructure. As power distribution systems become larger and more complex, manufacturers and project stakeholders must address system-level safety considerations that extend beyond individual components.

Prefabricated modular power distribution assemblies, also known as open power skids, are pre-assembled, factory-tested electrical systems mounted on a single steel frame to support rapid on-site installation and portability. To address the system-level safety of interconnected power components used in data centers and other integrated power distribution systems, UL Solutions offers testing and certification to UL 2140:2026, the Outline of Investigation for Prefabricated Power Distribution Assemblies.

Growing demand for data center power infrastructure

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, data centers consumed about 4.4% of total U.S. electricity in 2023 and are expected to consume approximately 6.7% to 12% by 2028.[1]

Data Center Chart

Adapted from Data Center Facility – Low Voltage Direct Current (LVDC) Power Distribution White Paper, Version 1.0, p. 16, Open Compute Project Foundation and Current/OS Foundation, 2026. Available at: DCF Power Distribution LVDC White Paper. Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License.

UL 2140:2026, the Outline of Investigation for Prefabricated Power Distribution Assemblies

Power skid modules are pre-assembled electrical systems that integrate multiple power distribution components on a single steel frame for transportation and installation as a unified assembly. UL 2140 outlines construction, installation, safety, marking, rating, grounding and documentation requirements for prefabricated power distribution assemblies. It covers both manufacturing and field installation considerations, to evaluate compliance with electrical safety standards, proper equipment identification, adequate protection and grounding, required working clearances, and the provision of installation and maintenance documentation.”

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Benefits of UL 2140 certification

May reduce the number of permits required with system-level evaluation  

Helps support permitting and inspection activities through third-party certification documentation

Enables a repeatable manufacturing approach for prefabricated power distribution assemblies

Address system-level safety considerations that may not be evaluated through individual component certification activities alone

Provides documentation that can support review by code authorities and inspectors

Components commonly included in prefabricated power distribution assemblies

  • Main switchgear/switchboards
  • Circuit breakers overcurrent and short-circuit protection
  • Busbars and busway systems
  • Transformers
  • Uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems
  • Battery energy storage systems (BESS)
  • Automatic transfer switches (ATS)
  • Panelboards/distribution panels
  • Power monitoring and control systems
  • Protective relays
  • Grounding and bonding systems
  • Enclosures
  • Factory-installed interconnections
Copper busbar. Uninterrupted power. Electrical power.

Why work with UL Solutions?

As data centers scale to support AI workloads, power distribution systems are becoming larger, more complex and increasingly prefabricated. While individual components may be certified, integrating those components into a complete power distribution assembly creates additional system-level safety and performance considerations.

Our dedicated team includes former code authorities and experienced safety and regulatory engineers.

Get connected with our team

Contact UL Solutions to assess, scale and safely deploy next-generation data center power systems architecture.