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Batch Zero
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Batch Zero

Texas's first cohort-based study for ERCOT's 438 GW large-load interconnection queue, approved June 2026.

Last refreshed: 28 June 2026 · Appears in 1 active topic

Key Question

Can Batch Zero process Texas's 438 GW queue before the backlog outgrows its autumn 2027 transmission plan?

Timeline for Batch Zero

#818 Jun

Texas queue swells to 438 GW

Data Centres: Boom and Backlash
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Common Questions
What is Batch Zero in Texas and how does it work?
Batch Zero is ERCOT's first formal cohort-based large-load interconnection study process, approved by Texas PUC on 18 June 2026. Instead of studying each applicant individually, ERCOT groups them into a single cohort and models the combined transmission impact, with a final plan due autumn 2027. Data centres make up roughly 90% of the 438 GW queue it addresses.Source: Utility Dive
When will Texas complete the Batch Zero interconnection study?
ERCOT's Batch Zero final transmission plan is due autumn 2027, with the next application round (Batch 1) opening summer 2027. Most of the 2026 and early 2027 data-centre pipeline will be committed before any Batch Zero outcome is published.Source: Utility Dive
How big is the Texas ERCOT large-load queue?
ERCOT's large-load queue reached 438 GW in June 2026, roughly 90% of it data centres and approximately five times Texas's peak electricity demand. The queue grew 28 GW in the six weeks before Batch Zero was approved and has nearly doubled from the 225 GW at which Texas first attempted to address it.Source: Utility Dive

Background

Texas Public Utility Commission approved ERCOT's first formal Batch Zero large-load interconnection study on 18 June 2026, with a final transmission plan not due until autumn 2027 and the next application round (Batch 1) opening in summer 2027. ERCOT's large-load queue stood at 438 GW at the time of approval, roughly five times Texas's peak electricity demand and approximately 90% data centres. Texas first tried to clear this backlog when the queue stood at 225 GW; it has nearly doubled since.

Batch Zero is a cohort-based study method: instead of processing each large-load interconnection application individually, ERCOT groups all current applicants into a single cohort and models the transmission impact of the whole batch together. This approach reduces duplicated engineering work and produces a coordinated transmission plan, but it extends the timeline for individual applicants who must wait for the cohort study to complete before their connection can proceed. The autumn 2027 plan date means most 2026 and early 2027 data-centre build programmes will be committed before any Batch Zero outcome is known. Queue intake runs at tens of gigawatts per quarter; the study process takes years; the backlog therefore grows faster than any cohort can be processed.