Author: Basit Mushtaq
ERCOT LLWG Meeting Summary – March 13, 2026
The ERCOT LLWG meeting held on March 13, 2026, focused on the evolving framework required to integrate rapidly growing large-load demand, primarily driven by data centers. Key discussions included interconnection queue growth, batch study implementation, flexible interconnection models (CLR/BYOG), ride-through requirements (NOGRR282), dynamic modeling standards, and frequency stability considerations.
Large Load Interconnection Queue Growth:
ERCOT presented updated data showing significant growth in the large load queue over the past year.
- 137 new interconnection requests (~140,000 MW) have been submitted and are not yet reflected in current queue charts
- When included, this would increase the total queue from approximately ~238,000 MW to nearly ~380,000 MW
At the same time, the “ERCOT Approvals – Past 12 Months” highlights a critical constraint:
- Only ~2,168 MW approved to energize in the past 12 months
- Only ~5,878 MW of planning studies approved
Key Insight: While the queue is expanding extremely rapidly, the rate at which projects are progressing through the interconnection process remains relatively limited.
Large Load Batch Study (Batch Zero) Development:
ERCOT provided an update on the Batch Zero interconnection framework, intended to address the growing backlog of large-load requests. ERCOT filed Batch Zero revision requests (NPRR/PGRR) on March 4, 2026, initiating the formal governance process. Key governance milestones include:
- PRS/ROS/TAC reviews through Q2 2026
- Target Board decision: June 2026
- Target effective date: August 2026
Objectives of Batch Zero:
- Provide a structured framework for backlog processing
- Improve study efficiency and transparency
- Enable clearer timelines for developers
- Maintain system reliability
- ERCOT also indicated additional revision requests for CLR and BYOG targeted for April 2026 filing.
Batch Zero is an interim solution, with future refinements expected based on implementation experience.
CLR and BYOG Constructs:
Controllable Load Resources (CLR) and Bring-Your-Own-Generation (BYOG) emerged as key mechanisms to enable flexible interconnection. CLR allows loads to participate as dispatchable demand under SCED control, enabling early energization with curtailment capability. BYOG enables co-located generation to offset grid demand. The Self-Limiting Facility (SLF) concept enforces strict limits on grid withdrawal where on-site generation is insufficient under contingency conditions.
Three practical configurations are being considered:
Load-Only CLR
- Load participates as a Controllable Load Resource (CLR)
- Fully dispatchable under SCED (5-minute intervals)
- Must follow ERCOT basepoints and can be curtailed as needed
CLR with Behind-the-Meter Generation
- Includes non-synchronized backup generation (e.g., diesel or battery systems)
- ERCOT observes only the net load at the point of interconnection (POI)
- Provides additional operational flexibility while maintaining system visibility
Self-Limiting Facility (SLF)
- Enforces a strict net injection/withdrawal cap at the POI
- Required where on-site generation cannot fully support load under contingency conditions
- ERCOT is progressing toward formalizing these frameworks, with: CLR/BYOG-related revision requests targeted for early April (around April 8).
NOGRR282- Ride-Through Requirements Updates
ERCOT presented updates to NOGRR282, focusing on ride-through performance for Large Electronic Loads (LELs). Key proposed updates:
- High-frequency ride-through threshold increased to 63 Hz
- Allowable overcurrent up to 125%, limited to ≤ 0.5 seconds during transient events
While the proposal is nearing finalization, it remains contested by stakeholders. ERCOT has maintained strict requirements, emphasizing that large electronic loads pose significant reliability risks if not properly controlled.
Dynamic Model Quality Testing (PGRR144)
ERCOT proposed updates to the Dynamic Working Group Procedure Manual to enhance dynamic modeling requirements for large loads. These updates introduce two key testing requirements.
Model Quality Test (MQT) – All Large Loads
- Flat-start validation
- Voltage disturbance (VRT) testing
Converter Model Validation (CMV) – LELs
- Validates UPS and converter behavior
- Includes disturbance and subsynchronous response testing
Required across:
- PSS®E
- PSCAD
- TSAT
Implication: Accurate dynamic modeling is critical due to the increasing presence of power-electronics-based loads.
Frequency Stability Analysis
ERCOT is conducting studies to assess the impact of large-load loss events on system frequency. The analysis uses TSAT simulations across multiple historical cases with varying system inertia and primary frequency response levels. The study aims to identify load-loss thresholds that could cause frequency excursions and evaluate the role of fast frequency response (FFR). Results are expected in Q2 2026.
ERCOT LLWG Conclusion
The meeting highlights ERCOT’s transition toward a structured and flexible framework to integrate unprecedented large-load growth. Batch processing, flexible interconnection models, enhanced ride-through requirements, and improved dynamic modeling standards are being developed to balance speed-to-power with system reliability. Large loads are increasingly expected to behave as controllable and responsive system elements rather than passive demand.
Resources from ERCOT LLWG March 13, 2026
