ERCOT launches batch connection process for large electricity users

ERCOT announced a new system-wide batch connection process and rules (PGRR145 and NPRR1325) that enable large electricity users, primarily data centers, to be studied and allocated transmission capacity together; the Public Utility Commission of Texas approved the rules on June 18, 2026 and implementation for “Batch Zero” begins July 2026.

• Main announcement: ERCOT adopted a batch study framework (governed by PGRR145 and NPRR1325) to assess eligible large projects (≥75 MW) together; ERCOT is tracking more than 438,000 MW of proposed large-user demand and will start “Batch Zero” in July 2026 with a developer financial-commitment deadline currently planned for June 2027.
• Background and process details: The rules were developed via an extensive stakeholder engagement (80+ meetings, ~500 participants per workshop, ~200 survey responses, >290 written comments); classification outcomes (Base Load, Studied Load, Excluded) will be notified August 7, 2026, with system allocations provided in Spring 2027 and a final transmission plan published in Fall 2027.