Data · Datacenter Dynamics
EPRI launches data center flexibility framework to speed up grid connections
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US non-profit the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) has launched a new initiative to create a uniform flexibility classification framework for large electric loads, with the aim of expediting time-to-power for data centers.
Key facts
- Initial framework participants include Google, Meta, NVIDIA, Siemens, Constellation Energy, Southern Company, Exelon, Midcontinent Independent System Operator, California ISO, and Arizona Public
- Flex MOSAIC is being developed through EPRI’s DCFlex initiative in collaboration with more than 65 utilities, system operators, regulators, hyperscalers, and technology providers
- Flexibility is critical for fast access to power for data centers,” said Vladimir Troy, vice president of AI Infrastructure at NVIDIA
- As demand from AI and data centers grows at unprecedented speed, flexibility is becoming the third leg of the speed-to-power stool, alongside generation and transmission,” said EPRI president
Summary
Flex MOSAIC is being developed through EPRI’s DCFlex initiative in collaboration with more than 65 utilities, system operators, regulators, hyperscalers, and technology providers. EPRI has said that the voluntary framework will establish a “shared, credible way to define flexibility from large loads - particularly data centers - based on the magnitude, timing, duration, and frequency of their response.” According to the non-profit, the initiative aims to create a common understanding of how much flexibility a large load can deliver, which in turn has the potential of shortening interconnection timelines, improving grid planning processes, and accelerating time to power while not impacting affordability or reliability.