Large Electric Load Modeling for Interconnection Applications and Compliance Studies

The rapid expansion of the AI industry has accelerated construction of large data centers, driving widespread interconnection of large electronic loads to the U.S. bulk power system. These facilities, dominated by power electronics, UPS systems, and motor‑driven cooling, exhibit dynamic behavior that differs significantly from conventional load and can stress voltage stability, frequency response, and equipment ratings during disturbances. This presentation introduces a practical method for modeling large electronic loads in power system simulation tools and discusses how that representation can be applied in interconnection and compliance studies. Using an example data center model and load profile, we demonstrate the use of our proposed large electronic load model for sizing battery energy storage to support ride‑through performance required of large loads, and to mitigate real‑power oscillations at the point of interconnection due to AI loads.

Robert Owusu-Mireku & Wesley Pfaff, S&L

Dr. Robert Owusu-Mireku is a Manager/Consultant at Sargent & Lunday with over 14 years of power system model and studies experience. Robert supports utilities, and energy and data center developers in performing various electrical analytical studies including, steady-state, stability analysis, short-circuit, and transient studies. Before joining Sargent & Lunday, Robert worked for Eaton in product development and research roles at the Eaton Research Lab. Robert holds a PhD in electrical engineering from Cornell University.

Wes Pfaff has over 15 years of specialized experience in utility operations, with a primary focus on transmission planning and power system modeling. At Sargent & Lundy, Wes leads diverse engagements across the country, including transmission planning, generator interconnection, and comprehensive power system studies. His technical expertise spans steady-state, transient stability, and short-circuit evaluations to ensure the reliability of the grid. Before joining S&L, Wes served as a transmission planner at Missouri River Energy Services, a joint action agency supporting municipal utilities. Wes has a BS in Electrical Engineering from South Dakota State University, a Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in the state of South Dakota, and holds a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.

Date/Time

Feb 11, 2026 @ 12pm-1pm Central Time

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