NERC releases report on integrating data centers and cryptocurrency mining into the electrical system

Posted on January 10, 2025 by Dave Kovaleski

The North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) recently published an incident review Which examines the challenges arising from integrating large voltage-sensitive loads into a bulk electrical system (BES).

In general terms, large voltage-sensitive loads include facilities that require very intensive computing power, such as data centers and cryptocurrency mining facilities.

A review of the incident highlights the potential for significant load loss during faults that would normally be cleared at a BES. It also emphasizes the increasing presence of voltage sensitive loads within the system.

Specifically, the review analyzes a recent event in the Eastern Interconnection that underscores the vulnerability of these loads to voltage disturbances. These vulnerabilities, in turn, may have significant implications for reliability.

NERC’s analysis provides important guidance for BES operators, planners, and regulators in dealing with this challenge. Specifically, it calls for enhanced awareness and proactive measures to identify and mitigate potential reliability risks associated with the loss of large voltage-sensitive loads. NERC notes that these considerations are necessary to ensure the continued stability and reliability of the BES as the integration of these loads expands.

Furthermore, the report recommends that transmission owners, transmission operators, transmission planners, and owners of large loads work collaboratively to identify and mitigate the reliability risks posed by the potential loss of these loads. Additionally, NERC encourages all stakeholders to read the full review for a detailed analysis and recommended actions to address emerging reliability challenges.