LG Electronics has laid out an ambitious strategy to dominate the global heating, ventilation, and air conditioning market by 2030. The company is aiming to leverage advanced AI technologies to expand its role in the HVAC sector, particularly focusing on data centers and region-specific climate solutions.
A key component of this strategy is tripling their data center cooling orders within 2025. To achieve this, LG is pioneering the development of various cooling technologies, such as liquid cooling systems. These systems utilize coolant distribution to directly address heat from server chips. In addition, traditional chiller-based air cooling is being enhanced, supporting direct current power environments. For more comprehensive solutions, a new test lab for AI server environments has been established to ensure optimal cooling performance.
Another critical focus for LG is expanding its non-hardware revenue streams using advanced AI applications. This includes software solutions like BECON, an AI-integrated building management platform that offers real-time energy analytics. Furthermore, LG is nearing the launch of a digital twin system that simulates and optimizes data center heat generation through AI-powered controls.
James Lee, President of the LG Energy Solutions, emphasizes the potential impact of burgeoning data centers. He states, “HVAC demand is rising in tandem with the growing number of data centers being built worldwide. Leveraging decades of experience and core technological excellence, LG is committed to becoming a leading HVAC solution provider in the AI era.”
A recent collaboration with Korean carrier LG Uplus demonstrates their commitment to innovation. A pilot test of liquid cooling technologies is underway, potentially setting new industry standards for thermal management. This collaboration is part of a larger initiative to build future-ready, Green AI Data Centers by integrating global and Korean cooling companies like Vertiv, CoolIT Systems, and Global Standard Technology.
These partnerships aim to enhance sustainable cooling with methods such as direct-to-chip and immersion cooling. Direct-to-chip cooling circulates coolant directly onto server components. Immersion cooling, alternatively, submerges hardware in oil baths for efficient heat dissipation. Both approaches are designed to enhance cooling efficiency while addressing environmental concerns.
