AI Data Centres as Converter-Based Loads: New Stability Risks & Opportunities
IEEE PES Saudi Arabia Chapter Webinar
AI Data Centres as Converter-Based Loads
New Stability Risks & Opportunities
AI data centres are evolving from passive demand into large, converter-interfaced load blocks with fast, synchronised power ramps. At scale, these behaviours can affect system strength, frequency and voltage stability, and introduce control interactions in converter-dominated networks. This talk summarises key stability risks associated with clustering and weak-grid connections, and reviews emerging technical requirements being adopted internationally for large converter-based loads. Topics include ramp-rate limits, maximum single-drop constraints, validated EMT modelling, high-resolution telemetry, and fault ride-through performance. The presentation concludes with a practical framework for integrating data centres safely while enabling flexible services such as fast frequency response, thermal shifting, and controlled compute ramping.
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Speakers
Dlzar Al Kez
AI Data Centres as Converter-Based Loads: New Stability Risks & Opportunities
Biography:
Dlzar Al Kez, PhD, CEng, MIET, FHEA is a Research Associate (Net Zero Infrastructure) at the University of Manchester and a Chartered power system engineer specialising in the stability of converter-dominated networks. His research and practice focus on system strength, grid codes, and the dynamic behaviour of large power-electronic loads and inverter-based resources, including AI data centres. He has more than 15 years of experience supporting utilities, system operators, and public-sector organisations on stability assessments, operational resilience, and future-grid transition planning. He serves as an Associate Editor for Springer Nature (Smart Grids and Sustainable Energy) and IET Smart Grid, and as a Subject Matter Expert for Elsevier.
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Agenda
- Opening & Welcome
- Overview of AI Data Centres as Converter-Based Loads
- System Strength & Weak Grid Considerations
- Frequency and Voltage Stability Impacts
- Control Interactions in Converter-Dominated Networks
- EMT Modelling vs. RMS Approaches
- Emerging Grid Code Requirements (Ramp Rates, Ride-Through, Visibility)
- Integration Framework & Practical Recommendations
- Q&A Session
- Closing Remarks
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IEEE Power & Energy Society – Saudi Arabia Chapter
Advancing power system engineering in support of reliable, resilient, and future-ready grids
In collaboration with leading experts from academia and industry
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