ERCOT warns that Texas peak power demand could more than quadruple to 367,790 MW by 2032, driven largely by data centers and other large load customers. The warning follows a preliminary forecast that highlights the growing strain on the state's grid. Texas has seen rapid growth in data centers, cryptocurrency mining, industrial and oil and gas processes, all of which feed into ERCOT's load projections. The forecast incorporates data from utilities working with medium and large load customers, as directed by state lawmakers under SB 6. The current peak record is 85,508 MW set in August 2023. ERCOT projects summer 2026 peak load between 90,500 MW and 98,000 MW, far below the 112,000 MW forecasted in the preliminary long‑term load forecast. The long‑term projection of 367,790 MW by 2032 represents more than a fourfold increase. Chad Seely, ERCOT senior vice president of regulatory policy, general counsel and chief compliance officer, told the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) that the grid operator "has concerns with using the preliminary load forecast values for the Reliability Assessment and any other transmission and resource adequacy analysis." He added that "ERCOT would prefer to consult with Commission Staff to evaluate whether it is appropriate to seek adjustment of the forecast." Meanwhile, ERCOT President and CEO Pablo Vegas said, "Texas is experiencing exceptional growth and development, which is reshaping how large load demand is identified, verified, and incorporated into long‑term planning." ERCOT staff will discuss the forecast at the PUCT open meeting and the ERCOT board of directors meeting on April 21.