AI Retrofit Readiness Score (ARRS)
How do you score a mining facility for AI conversion?
ARRS is a 100-point scoring system evaluating 5 dimensions: Power Architecture (30%), Cooling (25%), Electrical (20%), Location (15%), and Permitting (10%). Facilities scoring 75+ are excellent conversion candidates with 12-18 month timelines.
Key Data Points
- 5 weighted dimensions, 100-point scale
- 75+ score = excellent candidate, minimal retrofit
- 60-74 = good candidate, moderate upgrades needed
- 45-59 = significant work required
- <45 = greenfield likely more economical
5 Scoring Dimensions
Power Architecture
30% weightRedundancy level, voltage, and substation capacity
Cooling System
25% weightCurrent cooling type and retrofit complexity
Electrical Topology
20% weightPDU capacity, cable pathways, and transformer headroom
Location & Grid
15% weightGrid territory, interconnection status, fiber access
Permitting & Zoning
10% weightExisting permits, zoning classification, environmental status
Score Interpretation
Example: 50 MW Texas Mining Site
| Dimension | Weight | Raw Score | Weighted | Rationale |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ⚡ Power Architecture | 30% | 75 | 22.5 | Single feed, backup available, ERCOT interconnection active |
| ❄️ Cooling System | 25% | 55 | 13.8 | Air-cooled ASICs, clear path for liquid retrofit |
| 🔌 Electrical Topology | 20% | 70 | 14.0 | 480V mains, 208V distribution needs upgrade |
| 📍 Location & Grid | 15% | 85 | 12.8 | ERCOT, 10 mi to Dallas IX, fiber on-site |
| 📋 Permitting | 10% | 90 | 9.0 | Industrial zoning, all permits current |
| Total ARRS Score | 72.1 | Good candidate — moderate upgrades needed | ||
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the AI Retrofit Readiness Score (ARRS)?
ARRS is a 100-point scoring methodology to evaluate a Bitcoin mining facility's suitability for AI/HPC conversion. It measures 5 dimensions: Power Architecture (30%), Cooling System (25%), Electrical Topology (20%), Location & Grid (15%), and Permitting (10%).
What ARRS score indicates a good conversion candidate?
Facilities scoring 75+ are excellent candidates with minimal retrofit required. Scores 60-74 are good candidates requiring moderate upgrades. Scores 45-59 need significant work but may still be viable. Below 45 typically indicates greenfield may be more economical.
How does ARRS calculate MW shrink?
MW shrink is estimated based on cooling type transition and tier target. Air-to-liquid cooling typically results in 45% shrink (100 MW mining → 55 MW AI). Air-to-air (Tier 2) shows 30% shrink. These factors are incorporated into the Location dimension.
Who uses ARRS scoring?
ARRS is used by: (1) Mining operators evaluating pivot economics, (2) Private equity diligencing acquisition targets, (3) AI cloud providers sourcing brownfield capacity, (4) Infrastructure lenders assessing collateral quality.
How often should ARRS be recalculated?
ARRS should be recalculated quarterly or when material changes occur: interconnection queue position changes, permit status updates, infrastructure upgrades, or grid territory rule changes (e.g., ERCOT large load study requirements).
Assess Your Facility
Use our calculator to estimate conversion costs based on ARRS dimensions.
Related Resources
Bitcoin Mining to AI Conversion Guide
Complete guide to converting mining facilities with deal examples.
Crypto-to-AI Conversion Calculator
Estimate CapEx, timeline, and economics for your facility.
ERCOT Interconnection Queue
Track queue position and energization timelines in Texas.
Site Readiness Methodology
General site scoring for AI datacenter development.