Crypto Miners in Texas Need ‘Approval to Energize’ in New Grid Hurdle

Texas has started requiring new large-scale cryptocurrency miners to seek permission to connect to the state’s power grid in anticipation of a flood of requests expected to drive up electricity demand.

The Electric Reliability Council of Texas is requiring utilities to submit studies on the impact of miners and other large users tapping the grid before they can get “approval to energize,” according to a March 25 notice from the state’s main grid operator. Ercot members voted Wednesday to form a task force to hash out details of an interim plan that’s ultimately meant to protect the grid from being overwhelmed.