ERCOT released a preliminary long‑term load forecast indicating that peak electricity demand in Texas could rise sharply through the early 2030s, driven largely by data centers, industrial electrification, and population growth. The forecast, filed with the Public Utility Commission of Texas, shows potential peak demand reaching approximately 367,790 MW by 2032, compared with the state’s current record of 85,508 MW set in August 2023.

ERCOT’s own data shows that non‑crypto data centers account for the majority of projected new electricity demand on the Texas grid over the next several years. By the early 2030s, data centers alone could represent well over 200,000 MW of new demand, far exceeding growth from crypto mining, industrial projects, or oil and gas operations.

ERCOT emphasized that the forecast is preliminary and incorporates a high volume of reported large‑load requests.

Read more: ERCOT newsroom