The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) voted on November 21 to approve a new rule mandating that virtual currency mining facilities within the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) region register with the entity.

According to a press release from the PUCT, these facilities are required to provide annual information regarding their location, ownership, and electricity demand.

PUCT Chairman Thomas Gleeson said in the release that understanding the location and power requirements of virtual currency owners ensures the reliability of the ERCOT grid and meets Texans' electricity needs. "This is another example of the PUCT and ERCOT adapting to support a rapidly changing industrial landscape," Gleeson said. "Most importantly, we will always take the steps necessary to ensure reliable, affordable power for all Texans."

The rule is based on Public Utility Regulatory Act (PURA) §39.360, enacted by Senate Bill 1929, which was passed during the previous legislative session and signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott. Virtual currency mining facilities are considered "flexible loads" due to their ability to quickly adjust power consumption in response to factors such as wholesale electricity prices or grid frequency, potentially impacting these elements.