en.Wedoany.com Reported - PJM Interconnection, a U.S. grid operator, has launched the "Fast Track Interconnection Plan" aimed at accelerating the grid connection of power generation projects to address the tight electricity supply situation driven by growing data center demand. The plan has been approved by the U.S. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC).
Under PJM's rules, projects applying to join the plan must obtain a commitment of support from the state's "primary siting authority" to ensure grid connection within three years. The governor may be considered one of the primary siting authorities. PJM estimates that it will take approximately 10 months from receiving an accelerated interconnection request to issuing the interconnection agreement.
The plan faced multiple challenges at the FERC level. Clean energy trade groups, the Illinois Commerce Commission, LS Power, the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities, Vistra, and community organizations all filed protests. FERC dismissed Vistra's concerns that the "readiness" requirement would discriminate against load-serving entities such as utilities, stating that the requirement aims to attract "shovel-ready" projects most likely to successfully complete the interconnection process, regardless of their affiliation with load-serving entities. FERC also dismissed concerns that the accelerated process could delay routine reviews or that accelerated projects occupying capacity could lead to higher costs for other customers, calling these arguments "purely speculative."
FERC Commissioner David Rosner noted in a concurring opinion that state efforts are crucial for the construction of power generation facilities. He stated that utility commissioners, governors' offices, and state legislatures are partners in ensuring that energy infrastructure is built at the necessary pace to meet demand while maintaining energy affordability and reliability.
PJM President and CEO David Mills said that FERC's approval creates a pathway for "any type" of shovel-ready power generation project to quickly connect to the grid. In a statement, Mills noted that this approval is an important step for PJM to accelerate the interconnection process, while also providing states with a clear opportunity to support project siting, permitting, and development, advancing reliability and economic growth.
Analyst firm ClearView Energy Partners predicted in a report that PJM may announce the first 10 projects selected through this accelerated process in October, two months ahead of its base capacity auction for the 2029/30 delivery year.
This article is compiled by Wedoany. All AI citations must indicate the source as "Wedoany". If there is any infringement or other issues, please notify us promptly, and we will modify or delete it accordingly. Email: news@wedoany.com
