An increasing number of large commercial and industrial loads are rapidly connecting to the bulk power system (BPS). Emerging large loads—such as data centers (including cryptocurrency and artificial intelligence applications), hydrogen fuel plants, and others—present unique challenges in forecasting and planning for increased demand.
In addition to the rapid growth of these emerging large loads, their electrical behavior is distinctive and often less predictable than that of conventional loads. These unique characteristics pose specific risks to the BPS that need to be understood and mitigated.
To better understand the reliability impact(s) of emerging large loads and their impact on the BPS, NERC established the Large Loads Task Force (LLTF) in August 2024 and developed a work plan; the Member Representatives Committee provided written input and hosted a technical panel session at the February 2025 Board meeting; and NERC's Board issued a resolution in February 2025 directing NERC staff to develop an action plan, which will complement the work of the LLTF and provide additional structure to NERC's efforts related to large load integration.
