Common Questions

What is behind-the-meter generation for data centres?

behind-the-meter generation means a data centre generates its own power onsite, without drawing from the utility grid. It bypasses grid-connection queues and is not subject to grid connection regulations, but requires its own generation permits.Source: Lowdown data-centres briefing

How big are behind-the-meter data centre installations?

The largest behind-the-meter data centre installation is xAI's Colossus in Memphis at 1.2 GW (41 gas turbines). Meta's El Paso facility uses 366 MW BTM. Pure DC's Dublin microgrid is 110 MW. GE Vernova's 80 GW turbine backlog is driven primarily by BTM orders.Source: Lowdown data-centres briefing

What is behind-the-meter power generation for data centres?

behind-the-meter generation is electricity produced on the customer's side of the utility meter and consumed on-site without flowing through the grid. Data centres use it to bypass interconnection queues that can stretch three years or more.

Background

behind-the-meter (BTM) generation refers to electricity generation installed at a facility that feeds power directly to on-site loads without flowing through the public electricity grid or a utility meter. For data centres, BTM has become the primary strategy for bypassing grid-connection queues that stretch to three years or more in constrained markets.

BTM data centre deployments range from natural gas turbines (xAI Colossus, 1.2 GW; Meta El Paso, 366 MW) to renewable microgrids (Pure DC Dublin, 110 MW). The common characteristic is that none of the power passes through a utility connection point, avoiding queue wait times and grid-related regulatory requirements.

BTM is distinct from grid-connected backup generation: in BTM architecture, onsite capacity is the primary power source, not a fallback. Virginia passed a $0.011 per kWh consumption tax on 22 June 2026 covering both utility-supplied and self-generated BTM power, capped at $600m per year and sunsetting 1 July 2028, the first US levy to reach past the utility meter. The Department of Energy separately issued two Section 202(c) curtailment orders against BTM generation in PJM territory in 2026, confirming federal oversight of the sector is active and expanding.