Data centers could gobble up to 40% of the US electrical equipment market by 2030. (WoodMac)
As predicted by WoodMac in a new report, it would prove quite a jump from <2% in 2020. But the sector is set to need plenty of supplies—quickly. Data center capacity is forecast to leap from around 24 GW to 110 GW 2030 (nearly 70% of total load growth over that period)
In the hyperscale segment, for example, the needed number of padmount transformers could spike from around 1,500 units in 2025 to nearly 9,400 by 2030.  Over that period, MV switchgear and automatic transfer switches are each forecast to swell from 786 to 4,698 units.
Why it matters: Lead times for critical equipment already sit at 18-36 months. Now, manufacturers are returning to customers with year-old purchase orders and tacking on 20% price hikes just to hold delivery schedules—and hyperscalers are opening their wallets.