Department of Energy study on compute-based load management

(a) Study required The Secretary of Energy shall conduct a study to assess the load-management capabilities and grid-balancing potential of proof-of-work mining operations and high-density compute facilities located in the United States. (b) Scope of study The study under subsection (a) shall evaluate— (1) the ability of proof-of-work mining operations and high-density compute facilities— (A) to reduce electricity consumption during periods of peak demand; (B) to shift load in coordination with grid operators; or (C) to participate in demand response and grid reliability programs; (2) the technologies, energy infrastructure, and contractual mechanisms that support flexible operation of high-density compute workloads; and (3) the emissions impacts, energy efficiency benefits, and market integration potential associated with the deployment of grid-interactive compute infrastructure in various geographic and regulatory contexts. (c) Consultation (1) In general In carrying out the study under subsection (a), the Secretary of Energy shall consult with— (A) the Secretary; (B) the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission; and (C) at least 1 Regional Transmission Organization or Independent System Operator (as those terms are defined in section 3 of the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 796)). (2) Requirement The Secretary of Energy, the Secretary of Defense, and the Secretary shall coordinate to enhance efficiency and avoid duplication with respect to the study required under subsection (a) and the study required under section 8(a). (d) Reports The Secretary of Energy shall submit to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate, the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives— (1) an interim report on the findings of the study under subsection (a) not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act; and (2) a final report on the findings of that study not later than 2 years after that date of enactment.