MRES taking proactive approach to large load requests

With the advent of advanced computing, data mining, cryptocurrency, and mineral and metal processing, electric utilities across the nation are receiving more and more requests for new, large loads to connect to their system. From a regional standpoint, area utilities are getting calls every week, according to a report published Dec. 7, 2024, by South Dakota Searchlight.

Recently, MRES has participated and been asked to present on the topic of large load requests in meetings with the South Dakota Governor’s Office of Economic Development and public utilities commissions in a number of member states. These opportunities have allowed MRES to engage not only with regulatory bodies and legislative decision-makers, but also with other utilities and key stakeholders in a proactive effort to develop practices and programs that will support our members in preparing for large load requests.

Due to its cold-weather climate, the Upper Midwest is an appealing landing spot for large loads, especially data centers focused on advanced computing. The cooler weather can help cool large buildings filled with computers and servers, and the added possibility of tying into renewable generation such as wind power is another reason data centers and other businesses requiring large loads are targeting the region.

These load requests can be anywhere from 50 to 500 megawatts (MW). To put that into perspective, 1 MW can power hundreds of homes. That said, each large load request is unique and presents many challenges that go beyond just the additional demand created by the load itself. In addition to finding or building more generation to support these requests, the current infrastructure of the grid — power plants, transmission lines, substations and distribution networks — limits its ability to absorb too much load at one time. At present, the grid cannot keep up with the pace of such large demand requests.

Members that receive large load requests should reach out to MRES early so we can help navigate the complexities of the request. If your utility is approached to serve a new, large load, please contact Vice President of Power Supply and Operations Terry Wolf at 605-338-4042 or info@mrenergy.com.

Due to its cold-weather climate, the Upper Midwest is an appealing landing spot for large loads, especially data centers focused on advanced computing. The cooler weather can help cool large buildings filled with computers and servers, and the added possibility of tying into renewable generation such as wind power is another reason data centers and other businesses requiring large loads are targeting the region.

These load requests can be anywhere from 50 to 500 megawatts (MW). To put that into perspective, 1 MW can power hundreds of homes. That said, each large load request is unique and presents many challenges that go beyond just the additional demand created by the load itself. In addition to finding or building more generation to support these requests, the current infrastructure of the grid — power plants, transmission lines, substations and distribution networks — limits its ability to absorb too much load at one time. At present, the grid cannot keep up with the pace of such large demand requests.

Members that receive large load requests should reach out to MRES early so we can help navigate the complexities of the request. If your utility is approached to serve a new, large load, please contact Vice President of Power Supply and Operations Terry Wolf at 605-338-4042 or info@mrenergy.com.