Texas Freezes New Data Center Grid Links Pending Audit as ERCOT Queue Swells to 474 GW
Updated
Updated · Natural Gas Intelligence · Aug 12
Texas Freezes New Data Center Grid Links Pending Audit as ERCOT Queue Swells to 474 GW
3 articles · Updated · Natural Gas Intelligence · Aug 12
Summary
Texas halted new data center connections to the power grid while a statewide audit reviews hyperscale projects, tightening oversight of one of the fastest-growing sources of power demand.
ERCOT’s interconnection queue now totals 474 gigawatts of requests, underscoring why state officials are scrutinizing whether the grid can absorb another wave of large loads.
Governor Greg Abbott has pledged action on data centers, signaling the freeze is part of a broader state response rather than a one-off permitting pause.
The clampdown comes as expected natural-gas demand from the sector accelerates and Waha gas prices have climbed enough to erase their earlier negative-price streak.