The latest report from the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) shows that cryptocurrency mining and artificial intelligence (AI) operations are driving unprecedented electricity demand in North America, particularly in regions like Texas, where peak demand is expected to grow at an annual rate of 4.6% by the summer of 2029—four times the previous forecast. The report highlights that the high energy consumption characteristics and load demand volatility of crypto mining and AI data centers pose significant challenges for grid management. Mining facilities adjust their electricity usage based on price fluctuations, while AI data centers experience spikes in power demand during processing, cooling, and storage, increasing the risk to grid stability. NERC recommends improving electricity demand forecasting, enhancing grid transmission planning, and promoting demand-side management (DSM) programs. Meanwhile, Texas has passed HB 3390 to strengthen the management of distributed energy resources (DERs). (Cointelegraph)

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