ERCOT changes long-term planning process to account for growth [Video]

Previously, ERCOT did not factor large new loads in its planning process until they provided financial security.

AUSTIN, Texas — A new law is allowing the agency that manages the Texas power grid to change how it plans for the future as the state continues to see more and more economic growth.

Previously, ERCOT did not factor large new loads in its planning process until they provided financial security. That meant in the long run, ERCOT could not account for things like cryptocurrency mining facilities, hydrogen-related manufacturing and data centers – all of which can demand a lot of power.

Last year, Gov. Greg Abbott signed House Bill 5066 to change this, so those industries and others can be included in ERCOT’s long-term planning.

At a board meeting on Tuesday, ERCOT President and CEO Pablo Vegas said this is an opportunity to further energy investments in Texas.

“This new era of planning …