#United States #Data Center #Hillsboro #Portland General Electric #GridCARE

Accelerating Data Center Power in Oregon

In a groundbreaking partnership, Portland General Electric (PGE) and GridCARE have successfully launched their first collaborative project aimed at expediting large load interconnections, primarily for data centers in Hillsboro, Oregon. This initiative is set to significantly enhance the energy capacity available for data centers, with projections indicating over 80 megawatts of additional capacity by 2026 and a total of more than 400 megawatts to be energized by 2029.

The Importance of Hillsboro

Hillsboro has emerged as a key data center hub in the United States, largely due to its strategic access to a diverse energy mix, robust fiber connectivity, and a temperate climate, which are critical for data center operations. This region has attracted substantial investment from various data center projects, amounting to billions of dollars, underscoring the need for innovative strategies to meet mounting electricity demand in essential economic sectors.

As Larry Bekkedahl, Senior Vice President of Strategy and Advanced Energy Delivery at PGE, highlighted, "Delivering safe, reliable electricity at the lowest possible cost are our core customer commitments." The collaboration with GridCARE has paved the way for an AI-driven approach that not only satisfies the swift demands of data centers but also maintains affordability and system reliability, benefitting customers and strengthening the economy of Oregon.

A Breakthrough Methodology

To validate and enhance capacity within the existing grid system, PGE has effectively implemented GridCARE’s patented DeFlex™ methodology. This innovative approach leverages generative AI forecasting and comprehensive hourly demand modeling to optimize the utilization of flexible resources such as batteries and on-site generation. The result is an expedited interconnection for multiple data center clients, with timelines significantly shortened in comparison to traditional methods.

The benefits of this new methodology are noteworthy:

• - Accelerated Interconnections: Facilitating faster power access for large loads without the drawn-out waiting periods typically associated with upgrades.
• - Efficient Grid Asset Use: Enhancing the existing grid infrastructure leads to cost control for all customers.
• - Increased Flexibility: Greater flexibility supports both system integrity and energy objectives.

As Christian Belady, a recognized figure in data center advancements, remarked, "The pace of AI and cloud growth necessitates a reevaluation of our energy strategies. What PGE and GridCARE have accomplished is a pivotal innovation that not only fuels AI and cloud expansion but also unlocks billions in new investments."

Broader Implications for the Industry

The electricity demand from data centers is projected to rise significantly in the coming years, potentially reaching between 6.7% and 12% of U.S. consumption by 2028. Utilities are challenged to quickly deliver new capacities while managing costs and ensuring fair charge allocation across diverse customer demographics. GridCARE’s platform aids utilities in validating planning, facilitating flexibility at scale, and alleviating interconnection bottlenecks. This, in turn, fosters substantial local and regional economic investments while reinforcing the utilities' commitment to reliable and safe power delivery at the lowest cost.

The partnership between PGE and GridCARE not only solidifies Oregon’s standing as a potent technology hub but also places PGE at the forefront of integrating AI into large-scale load forecasting for the benefit of grids and customers alike. Amit Narayan, the CEO of GridCARE, believes that utilities have a unique opportunity to meet unprecedented load growth. "By merging generative AI with grid flexibility, we are enabling utilities like PGE to adapt to the demands of the AI economy swiftly. This initiative illustrates the vast potential of close cooperation between utilities and innovators."

About the Companies

GridCARE focuses on resolving one of the most pressing issues faced by data center developers — prompt access to power. Utilizing a cutting-edge physics-based generative AI approach, GridCARE unlocks an extensive amount of immediate capacity from current grid frameworks. The company's strategies aim to create additional network capacity on existing transmission lines without requiring costly upgrades or prolonged wait times. Founded at Stanford University and supported by elite investors in energy and AI, GridCARE is collaborating with notable technology and data center enterprises to expedite interconnections for major projects.

On the other hand, PGE, designated as NYSE POR, is a comprehensive energy firm supplying electricity to nearly 950,000 customers across an area of 1.9 million Oregonians. Operating since 1889, PGE is devoted to providing safe, reliable, and cost-effective power while progressively transitioning to cleaner energy sources. The company has made significant strides in renewable energy, holding the top spot for voluntary renewable programs nationally. With a commitment to significantly reduce emissions and support local communities, PGE maintains a strong focus on addressing evolving customer needs through innovative energy solutions.