← All glossary terms

Utility Rates, Grid, and Markets

Demand charge

A demand charge bills the customer for peak demand, often in dollars per kW or kVA for a billing period. For data centers, demand charges can be a major cost driver because the load is large and persistent.

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Runtime

Runtime is how long a backup or storage system can support a defined load. Runtime must always specify load level, usable capacity, efficiency, reserve margin, fuel availability, and operating constraints.

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Special use permit

Special use permit is local approval for a use that is allowed only after discretionary review and conditions. Data centers may trigger special use review due to scale, utility infrastructure, noise, traffic, generators, water use, or community concerns.

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ALTA survey

ALTA survey is a detailed land survey prepared to American Land Title Association standards for commercial real estate transactions. It helps identify boundaries, easements, encroachments, access, utilities, improvements, and title issues that can affect data center development.

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