Infocast ERCOT Market Summit

Panel Discussion: Data Centers and Other Large Loads in ERCOT: Meeting Interconnection, Grid Integration, and Reliability Needs

ERCOT is a hotbed for the development of hyperscale data centers, as well as other large loads. However, the energy needs of these large facilities can vary widely, from needing 24/7/365 firm capacity to those having the flexibility to substantially reduce their demands in response to market pricing and ERCOT grid operational needs. At the same time, concerns have emerged regarding the potential impact of these large loads on grid reliability, where a facility suddenly going offline due to operational issues or power price concerns could have a similar effect as losing a similarly sized generator tripping on grid stability. This panel will explore what needs to be done to support the incoming wave of data centers and other large loads.

• How do the needs of AI-based data centers, crypto miners, and other large flexible loads differ?
• How are corporate sustainability goals affecting power supply decisions?
• Are facility developers encountering local opposition to onsite power and other potential interim solutions to long-term power supply needs?
• Are data center developers willing to make advanced commitments to help commercialize SMRs, geothermal and other forms of clean, firm generation?
• Are there pressing concerns with the interconnection process in ERCOT? If so, what could improve it?
• Are developers working with utilities to develop tariff structures that could result in more transmission capacity builds?
• What price signals would help large flexible loads make the most effective decisions regarding demand response?

Moderator:

• Casey Bell, Partner, TROUTMAN PEPPER LOCKE LLP

Panelists:

• Matthew Boms, Executive Director, TEXAS ADVANCED ENERGY BUSINESS ALLIANCE
• Kent Draper, Chief Commercial Officer, IREN
• Ruchira Shah, General Manager, Software Product Management, WÄRTSILÄ ENERGY STORAGE, INC
• Dan Stanzione, Executive Director of the Texas Advanced Computing Center, UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN
• Joel Yu, Senior Vice President, Policy & External Affairs, ENCHANTED ROCK