Core Scientific's Texas Expansion Halted by ERCOT Interconnection Freeze

Core Scientific's ambitious 500 MW expansion in Texas is facing significant regulatory hurdles. Governor Greg Abbott issued a directive on August 3, 2026, requiring an audit and verification process for all data centers in the ERCOT interconnection queue.

The freeze on large-load classifications, which were originally due on August 7, 2026, has been postponed indefinitely, affecting over 474.7 GW of projects currently under review, including Core Scientific's project.

This uncertainty is compounded by a Texas law passed in 2023 requiring registration for certain large crypto-mining operations over 75 MW, which adds to the infrastructure costs and political pressure facing the company.