FERC's large load order puts battery flexibility at the centre of US grid policy

The US’ Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) issued one of its most consequential grid actions in years on 18 June, directing all six US regional grid operators to justify or reform their tariffs for connecting large load (>20MW) energy users, such as AI data centres, crypto mining and advanced manufacturing facilities. The order aims to accelerate the ability for large loads to connect to the grid while ensuring reliable and affordable electricity for US consumers.