The US Department of Energy is proposing new rules that would allow large electricity users, such as artificial intelligence (AI) data centers and cryptocurrency miners, to connect directly to the power grid.
In a letter shared on October 23, Energy Secretary Chris Wright asked the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to develop a faster process for these high-demand users to access the country’s main electricity transmission system.
FERC, which oversees the interstate power grid, was urged to create a standard approach and offer quick decisions for projects that meet certain requirements.
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mining firm CleanSpark, posted on X that the plan supports “flexible loads” such as Bitcoin mining and AI data centers.
According to Wright, homes and electric vehicles are contributing to the increase, but large commercial facilities, especially those focused on data and digital processing, are placing some of the highest demands on the system.
These facilities often prefer to connect to high-voltage transmission lines, which can handle greater loads than local networks.
Wright suggested that FERC review applications within 60 days, provided the applicant agrees to cover the cost of any necessary grid upgrades.
He has asked FERC to respond to his request by April 30, 2026.
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