The UK’s energy regulator, Ofgem, is considering whether data centers should be required to cut power consumption during periods of system stress.
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According to reporting from Bloomberg, the potential move is part of a broader overhaul of the UK’s grid connection process. The new policy would require mandatory curtailment as a backstop measure, with Ofgem arguing that greater control over large power users could give the electricity system more flexibility to connect additional demand while maintaining reliability.
According to reports, Ofgem is also exploring voluntary flexibility arrangements under which data centers could reduce consumption in exchange for earlier grid access, which it says could reduce the need for mandatory controls.
The move comes as grid connection dates in the UK continue to stretch into the next decade, with the average wait time between five and ten years.
