Transmission and distribution companies including Tokyo Electric Power Holdings are tightening the rules for securing electricity for data centers. On the 1st, they revised the terms governing use of the transmission network to curb cases of “empty reservations,” in which only grid capacity is contracted while construction plans remain unclear.
Major electric utilities have strengthened the rules for securing a stable electricity supply to data centers and, on this date, revised the terms managed by their transmission and distribution divisions. Although the article does not detail the specific changes, it indicates that the conditions for data center operators to secure electricity are being tightened.
The background is a phenomenon known as “empty reservations.” This refers to securing only grid capacity while construction plans remain unclear and the actual supply and demand arrangements are not in place. At the same time, it is reported that developing power infrastructure involves lengthy waiting periods, with waits of up to around 10 years.
The revised terms are intended to enable transmission and distribution companies to manage the timing of contracts and supply more strictly for data centers and other users. The aim is believed to be improving consistency between grid usage plans and actual demand and facilitating infrastructure development.
The article provides further details to members only, so the specific provisions and figures can be confirmed in the full text. The companies concerned include Tokyo Electric Power Holdings and other operators responsible for transmission and distribution.