ERCOT to survey more than 400 data centers as part of Gov. Abbott's audit
The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) is launching a survey of 461 data centers' water and energy usage as part of an audit ordered by Gov. Greg Abbott. This audit has temporarily paused power grid connections for some large data centers until its completion in December. ERCOT is also evaluating hundreds of other large energy consumers for grid inclusion.
The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) is preparing to survey 461 data centers across the state regarding their water and energy consumption. This comprehensive audit, mandated by Gov. Greg Abbott, has already led to a temporary pause in power grid connections for some large data centers until its completion.
Chad Seely, a senior vice president with ERCOT, stated that the survey, comprising approximately 130 questions, must be completed by mid-October. It delves into aspects such as financial assistance, power self-sufficiency, water and cooling methods, community impact, and ownership. While individual company responses will remain confidential, ERCOT plans to present its findings, including any deficiencies, to Gov. Abbott, the Public Utility Commission of Texas, and state lawmakers by December.
Additionally, ERCOT provided preliminary figures for its "Batch Zero" study, which includes 362 large energy consumers, primarily data centers, requesting a total of 191.8 gigawatts of power. These projects represent roughly double the state's record-breaking energy demand. ERCOT is also undertaking a verification process for 231 of these large energy consumers, requiring proof of readiness like leases or permits, before proceeding with interconnection studies, with responses due by September 23.