Market Evaluation

Objective

Scope: Evaluate the cost impact of data center interconnections, and prioritize regions and nodes based on client criteria. Conduct the assessment on the nationwide power system, considering state and local jurisdictions and interconnection requirements.

Interconnection requirements vary across the U.S. based on state and interconnecting regions. A hyperscale client was seeking to evaluate locations in multiple regions (PJM, SERC, MISO, SPP, WECC, and ERCOT) to evaluate a portfolio of potential sites across the U.S.

Approach

Developed updated power flow models to be used in analysis that will quantify the impact of data centers.

Results

• Delivered heatmap representations conveying the suitability for data center interconnection by interconnection point as a GIS mapping (KMZ format) for each region and zone of the U.S.
• Developed transmission system models consistent with local utility practices and ISO guidelines, supplemented with public intelligence on future system conditions.
• Conducted contingency analysis (thermal/voltage limits) throughout individual zones, based on utility and ISO practices.
• Identified the interconnection limits and high-level estimates for overall network upgrade costs to interconnect data center load blocks.