Large Load Interconnection in ERCOT: Process Navigation

Meeting the Demands of a High-Growth Grid 

Texas is experiencing a surge in large load projects, from massive data centers to cryptocurrency mining and hydrogen production facilities. These projects bring enormous economic opportunity but also create new demands on the ERCOT grid, with some interconnections adding hundreds of megawatts of load at once.  For developers, the challenge is clear: securing timely approvals while ensuring technical compliance in an increasingly complex regulatory environment. 

The Complexity of Modern Large Loads

Unlike traditional industrial facilities, today’s large loads: 

• Depend on power electronics like UPS systems, rectifiers, and inverters that behave differently on the grid. 
• Use large induction motors and compressors, especially in hydrogen production, introducing voltage and reactive power challenges. 
• Increase the risk of transmission congestion, potentially driving delays or curtailments if not carefully planned. 
• Seek market participation flexibility, which offers benefits but adds new layers of technical evaluation. 

ERCOT requires accurate dynamic modeling (PSS®E and PSCAD) to capture these characteristics and assess impacts on load flow, stability, and reliability. 

How EPE Can Help Developers Succeed

At Electric Power Engineers (EPE), we partner with clients to transform these challenges into opportunities: 

• DWG Large Load Survey Services: Helping clients prepare and submit ERCOT’s latest DWG Large Load Survey and modeling requirements. 
• Dynamic Modeling Expertise: Developing and validating detailed PSSE and PSCAD models for Large Load Assets (e.g. data centers, crypto facilities, hydrogen plants, etc..) 
• Application Support: Guiding you through ERCOT’s large load interconnection process and technical questionnaires. 
• Mitigation Strategies: Advising on solutions for transmission congestion, voltage stability, and reactive power compliance. 

Why This Matters Now 

With ERCOT placing greater emphasis on grid reliability and accurate modeling, projects that fail to anticipate these requirements risk costly delays. By engaging early with experienced consultants, developers can streamline approvals, avoid surprises, and strengthen their competitive advantage in a rapidly growing market. 

How Our Experts Can Help

In case you missed it, refer to our previous article showing how we can support you in selecting where to interconnect your large load facility within ERCOT. 

EPE brings decades of interconnection expertise and a forward-looking approach to ERCOT’s evolving requirements. Whether you’re evaluating a new site or advancing a project already in the queue, reach out to our team using the form below to find out how we can help you navigate complexity and bring your large load project online with confidence.