SK Telecom (SKT) opened the taps on an AI data centre deal signed with Schneider Electric during MWC25 Barcelona, tasking the automation specialist with providing key power and control systems for a site in Ulsan, South Korea.

Schneider Electric is providing mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) systems for the SK AIDC in Ulsan project. The equipment comprises switchgear, an uninterruptible power supply, transformers and automated control systems.

Digital twin software is another part of the deal. Schneider Electric’s Electrical Transient Analyser Programme covers the design, analysis and operation of power systems and is due to be incorporated into SKT’s AI Data Centre Infrastructure Management (DCIM) system.

The DCIM is one of four areas of development targeted by the companies through dedicated working groups. They have also collaborated on developing an MEP reference design, prefabricated systems and energy-as-a-service arrangements.

A fresh Memorandum of Understanding adds joint development of the uninterruptible power supply and an energy storage system using Lithium-ion batteries from a relevant SK Group company.

Schneider Electric EVP and head of Secure Power and Services Pankaj Sharma (pictured, right) said the companies are “setting a new standard for AI data centres”.

SKT CEO Ryu Young-sang (pictured, left) added the agreements between the pair would likely create additional synergies across the SK Group in addition to the more tangible progress in the construction of its centre.

Various South Korean media reported SKT broke ground on the AI data centre on 29 August, working with other SK Group companies and Amazon Web Services.