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Utility Diveabout 1 month ago

MISO expects load to jump 35% by 2035 on data center growth

Key Takeaway

MISO's projected 35% load growth by 2035, fueled by data centers, creates both significant opportunities for new generation and transmission development and critical challenges for grid planning and stability.

AI Summary

  • MISO anticipates a substantial 35% increase in electricity demand by 2035, primarily driven by the rapid expansion of data centers.
  • This significant load growth introduces 'widen uncertainty' into MISO's long-term grid outlook, suggesting potential market volatility and increased pressure on resource adequacy.
  • The industry is called upon to develop and implement more dynamic planning models to effectively manage the unpredictable and substantial load growth from data centers.
  • For developers, this signals a strong and urgent demand for new generation, capacity, and transmission infrastructure within the MISO footprint.

Topics

capacity-marketdatacentermisopolicytransmission

Article Content

However, data center development plans "widen uncertainty" in the long-term outlook, the Midcontinent Independent System Operator cautioned. Utilities need more dynamic planning models to cope, Stephanie Chesnick Cutter of EY told Utility Dive.