Another interesting variable between Uri and Mara is the growth of Bitcoin Mining in Texas over the course of the past 2 years: ~600MW in 2021 to >1600MW more recently. Because miners consume power only when cost is less than their breakeven (~$50-$70/MWh), they effectively act like a generator, who would only generate on when costs is greater than their breakeven $/MWh cost. Having a loadside resource with these aligned operational features is pretty cool. Obviously can't pass cause/effect judgement, but worth thinking about IMO. Timestamp 30ish min: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MkB_9P9tnFI
Another interesting variable between Uri and Mara is the growth of Bitcoin Mining in Texas over the course of the past 2 years: ~600MW in 2021 to >1600MW more recently. Because miners consume power only when cost is less than their breakeven (~$50-$70/MWh), they effectively act like a generator, who would only generate on when costs is greater than their breakeven $/MWh cost. Having a loadside resource with these aligned operational features is pretty cool. Obviously can't pass cause/effect judgement, but worth thinking about IMO. Timestamp 30ish min: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MkB_9P9tnFI