The US energy secretary has asked the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to create new rules allowing big electricity consumers, like Bitcoin mining operations, to connect directly to the power grid. This would expedite the process and benefit industries such as data centers. Bitcoin miners require significant power for their operations.

Under the proposed rules, expedited reviews for large power users connecting to the high-voltage transmission system would take 60 days, instead of years. The applicant must agree to pay for any necessary network upgrades. The energy secretary is requesting a response from FERC by April 30, 2026. Bitcoin mining companies and AI centers are seeking access to sustainable energy.

FERC would be required to expedite connections for flexible loads like Bitcoin mining and data centers under the new rules. This move is seen as a recognition of the value of flexible demand in strengthening the grid. The high-voltage transmission system has a larger capacity than local lines, benefiting industries with high power consumption.

Read more at Cointelegraph: Energy Department Wants Faster Grid Hookups For High Energy Users