On an Open-Data Model of the NEM, Data-Centre Magnitude Sets Violations
Abstract
This paper represents the third of four publications establishing the 5-Factor Decision Framework. Shifting to the bulk transmission tier (132 kV – 500 kV), this study evaluates the localized impact of a 67 GW hyperscale data-centre pipeline on the Australian National Electricity Market (NEM). The research resolves the scaling conflict between generation-led and load-led grid stress, demonstrating that at the transmission tier, High-Impact Large Loads (HILL) completely override background grid diversity.
Methodology
Content currently under peer review.
- Topology Reconstruction: Utilizing the
egrimod-nem912-node open-data model to simulate the Australian eastern interconnect. - Time-Series AC Power Flow: Executing full 8,760-hour AC simulations across the grid to measure reactive power draw and voltage stability margins.
- Impedance Scaling: Contrasting inductive extra-high-voltage backbones ($X \gg R$) against constrained sub-transmission spurs to locate physical nose-curve collapse thresholds.
Expected Outcomes
The research establishes Factor 2 (Electrical Strength & Voltage Tier) of the framework. It proves a severe dichotomy in grid capacity: while the 500 kV backbone experiences 0% violations under massive load injections, rural 132 kV lines face a 66.4% violation rate and imminent voltage collapse. These findings advocate for a tiered, risk-adjusted regulatory connection policy for hyperscale data centres.