SoftBank Plans to Manufacture Large-Scale Batteries for AI Data Centers
May 11, 2026
SoftBank Plans to Manufacture Large-Scale Batteries for AI Data Centers
Japanese technology conglomerate SoftBank Group is preparing to enter the energy storage manufacturing sector with a strategic focus on producing large-scale batteries designed specifically for AI data centers. The move underscores the growing intersection between the energy and technology industries as the explosive growth of artificial intelligence drives unprecedented demand for reliable, high-capacity power infrastructure.
According to a report from Bloomberg, SoftBank is planning to develop and manufacture utility-scale batteries that can support the immense and often volatile power requirements of AI computing clusters. The initiative is seen as a direct response to the operational challenges faced by hyperscale data center operators, who are increasingly struggling with grid instability and the need for backup power that can sustain massive computational loads during peak usage or outages.
The company’s plan involves leveraging its deep technology investment portfolio and global supply chain expertise to produce energy storage systems that go beyond traditional uninterruptible power supplies. These batteries are expected to provide not only backup power but also grid stabilization services, helping data centers manage the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources. This is particularly critical as major cloud providers and AI firms commit to carbon-neutral operations, requiring a seamless blend of renewable energy and robust storage.
Industry analysts note that the average power consumption for a single AI training cluster can now exceed 100 megawatts, a figure that is expected to grow exponentially. SoftBank’s foray into battery manufacturing highlights a broader trend where tech giants are moving upstream to secure critical hardware components, from chips to energy storage, to maintain control over their infrastructure expansion. The company has not yet disclosed specific production timelines or partnership details, but the announcement signals a significant shift in how the data center industry approaches energy resilience and sustainability.
Source: bloomberg
