Front-of-the-meter (FTM)
Front-of-the-meter describes generation, storage or service connected on the utility or grid side of the customer’s meter, where power flows through the regulated system before reaching the load. A data center served front-of-the-meter buys power from the grid under a utility tariff or market arrangement. It is the standard model, and it ties the site’s timeline to grid interconnection and upgrades.
The full guide · Power & interconnectionBehind-the-Meter vs. Front-of-the-Meter Power for Data CentersWhat behind-the-meter and front-of-the-meter mean for data center power, how each arrangement works, and how the choice affects cost, timing, risk and siting.Where Front-of-the-meter comes up
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