Statnett pauses new grid capacity reservations for data centres

Statnett is responsible for coordinating the operation of Norway's power system. It says that large, rapid changes in electricity demand from data centres can affect the stability of the system. The pause applies to large electricity users with distinctive demand profiles and, in practice, affects data centres. The pause gives Statnett time to develop new technical requirements, which the Norwegian Energy Regulatory Authority (RME) must approve. Statnett expects to lift the pause by 1 August 2027.

Statnett has also paused the processing of new applications for technical approval under section 14 of the System Operation Regulations. The approval concerns how the facility interacts with the grid and, where required under section 14, must be in place before commissioning. For facilities connecting directly to the 420 kV grid, the pause also applies to applications Statnett has already received. For facilities connecting to the regional grid, Statnett will continue to process applications already under review where commissioning is planned in the near term. Statnett will consider processing some applications for smaller facilities due to connect by 1 August 2027.

A project with reserved capacity may therefore still face a delay if it lacks the necessary technical approval. Projects with that approval can still connect if they meet the other connection requirements. Statnett also says it will respect data centres' queue positions when allocating available capacity to other customers.

The Government intends the licensing regime to cover existing data centres and new projects. It will also consider other forms of regulation. Minister of Digitalisation Torgeir Micaelsen specifically mentioned projects in the grid connection queue. He said the Government aims to present the main principles in autumn 2027 and will consult on a proposal. The Government intends to provide for transitional arrangements for existing facilities. How it will treat projects under construction or with reserved capacity remains open.

The Government will consider requirements for digital security and preparedness. One option is to require data centres to make AI computing capacity available to research institutions, Norwegian businesses and the public sector. The Government does not regard cryptocurrency activities as serving a public benefit. Energy Minister Terje Aasland outlined a model under which a licence could be a prerequisite for applying for a grid connection.

The Ministry of Energy intends to amend the regulations promptly so that Statnett can impose technical conditions for safe grid connection. The Government will consider whether grid operators should set aside capacity for smaller data storage and processing facilities that are essential to critical services. The Government plans to revise the rules governing the duty of grid operators to connect electricity users. It wants customers adding large new loads to pay a greater share of grid investment and system operating costs.

The Government will discuss with the industry how larger data centres can support the development of power generation on commercial terms. It will also examine state ownership in data centre projects that offer particular public benefits.

Statnett's announcement · Government press release · Government press conference