PJM highlights the latest milestones of its reformed interconnection process in an updated fact sheet (PDF).
More than 800 projects reflecting 220 GW of capacity are being studied in the first Cycle of the new process.
There is no longer a backlog of new service requests, as all generation projects seeking to connect with the PJM grid are now being actively studied or undergoing preliminary review.
The processing time is now one to two years. PJM has developed internal automation to handle the large number of applications while also working with Google’s Tapestry to leverage artificial intelligence to help further streamline the process.
PJM is working with stakeholders to devise paths for faster connection for some generation, including a temporary Expedited Interconnection Track for large, state-sponsored projects that can come online within three years to address immediate reliability needs of the system.
In the transition to the new process, PJM has studied more than 170 GW of generation.
The PJM study process is just the beginning of a developer’s road to develop and build a project and start generating electricity. There are more than 50 GW of projects that have signed agreements with PJM that could plug in to the grid today, but many are facing challenges beyond PJM’s control, including permitting and supply chain delays.