A new report maps the locations where demand growth and grid constraints could present the greatest challenges and offers six recommendations for utilities.

PJM Collaborates with Google and Tapestry to Enhance Grid Planning with AI The PJM Interconnection, a critical player in the nation's electrical grid, has announced a significant collaboration with Google and Tapestry to deploy cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools. This multi-year partnership aims to further streamline PJM's planning process for integrating new generation resources into the vast electrical grid serving over 67 million people across 14 states. As the largest electrical grid in the country, PJM plays a vital role in ensuring the reliability of high-voltage electric power systems. Founded in 1927, the organization coordinates and directs the operation of its transmission grid, which boasts an impressive 88,333 miles of transmission lines. Additionally, PJM administers a competitive wholesale electricity market and works tirelessly to maintain grid reliability while alleviating congestion. The collaboration with Google and Tapestry is part of PJM's ongoing efforts to automate its planning processes. Having initiated the reformed interconnection process in July 2023, the organization is set to process the remaining 67 GW of projects this year and next, followed by the introduction of its new Cycle process in early 2026. PJM has recently introduced the Reliability Resource Initiative, which expedites the entry of selected projects into the transition phase. This innovative approach demonstrates the organization's commitment to enhancing grid planning with the latest technologies. The integration of AI-enhanced tools from Google and Tapestry is poised to revolutionize PJM's planning process, ensuring a more efficient and reliable electrical grid for generations to come.

As the US grapples with an aging grid, rising energy demand, and a backlog of energy projects, experts are advocating for strategic policies and innovative technologies to prevent potential electricity shortages and manage escalating energy expenses. A proposed framework by Advanced Energy United outlines three key areas - integrated energy system planning, grid flexibility goals, and consumer cost protections - which aim to expedite energy generation and infrastructure development while increasing flexibility and affordability. By promoting collaboration between utilities, setting targets for demand response programs and advanced transmission technologies, and evaluating non-traditional solutions before large infrastructure projects, experts hope to provide rapid, cost-effective relief and ensure efficient and affordable energy infrastructure development.

The evolving landscape of grid planning is undergoing a significant transformation, particularly concerning how generators interconnect with the power grid. Historically, the "Connect and Manage" (C&M) approach was common, allowing generators to access the grid without guaranteed transmission pathways. While initially appearing faster and less expensive, C&M left generators facing uncertain revenue and often resulted in transmission bottlenecks. Traditional interconnection steps included Electric Resource Interconnection Service (ERIS) for initial connection and Network Resource Interconnection Service (NRIS) to ensure access to load. However, the limitations of C&M have become increasingly apparent. Interconnection queues are experiencing severe backlogs, leading to project delays and uncertainty. The cost of necessary grid upgrades for interconnection is often substantial and unpredictable, significantly impacting project economics, especially when upgrades require coordination across multiple states. These challenges prompted a search for a better solution. The Southwest Power Pool (SPP) has pioneered the Consolidated Planning Process (CPP) to address these issues. CPP integrates interconnection and transmission planning, ensuring upgrades are strategically timed and located. A key benefit of CPP is the provision of upfront cost certainty for both generators and utilities. CPP introduces “GRID-C” fees: ERIS GRID-C for the initial interconnection and NRIS GRID-C for guaranteed load delivery. This system helps reduce queue backlogs by prioritizing viable projects and ensuring financial commitment. CPP represents a fundamental shift in regional planning and aligns with principles established by FERC Order 2003. SPP initially explored C&M as a viable option but ultimately recognized its inadequacy in addressing multi-state deliverability and cost certainty. The move to CPP reflects a broader understanding of the complexities involved. According to the SPP Market Monitor, Bivens, while initially supportive of C&M, now views CPP as superior for managing multi-state concerns. Gaw, of Advanced Power Alliance, anticipates CPP serving as a model for other regions, provided stakeholders effectively balance competing interests. Transmission providers making pricing and process information readily available, as suggested by Gramlich of Grid Strategies, can further expedite the interconnection process.

Everyone working in the energy sector is asking themselves the same question today: How are we going to meet rising electricity demand while maintaining reliability and keeping costs reasonable? The…

A Groundbreaking Partnership to Optimize Grid Planning with AI PJM, Google, and Tapestry are joining forces to develop an innovative solution for integrating new generation resources into the electrical grid. The partnership aims to optimize PJM's planning process, enabling faster linking of energy sources to its grid. The collaboration leverages Google Cloud and Google DeepMind to create a suite of artificial intelligence models and tools. These innovations will enable PJM to enhance power reliability and affordability by 2035, as new generation resources expand. The partnership focuses on utilizing advanced technologies to streamline the planning process, ultimately benefiting consumers. Tapestry, an Alphabet-backed project, plays a pivotal role in this initiative. By harnessing the power of AI, Google Cloud, and Google DeepMind, Tapestry will develop cutting-edge tools and models that support PJM's grid planning efforts. This strategic partnership has the potential to transform the way energy sources are integrated into the electrical grid. The integration of artificial intelligence in the power sector holds significant promise for improving grid operations and customer satisfaction. As this technology continues to evolve, it is likely to have far-reaching implications for the energy landscape.

A recent study from UC San Diego highlights the substantial potential for cost savings in the Western US power system through improved regional planning. The research suggests that coordinated efforts across the 11 Western states could yield savings of approximately $3.25 billion by 2035. Currently, the region's power systems largely operate independently, limiting efficiency and increasing costs. A major impediment to these savings is the historical lack of coordinated planning among these states. Significant improvements can be realized through several key areas. Expanding reserve sharing, where states can pool resources during peak demand or emergencies, is a top priority. Enhanced transmission planning will be crucial for reducing bottlenecks and facilitating the integration of renewable energy sources, representing a significant opportunity for cost reduction. Aligning resource adequacy planning across state lines would strengthen grid reliability and lower overall costs. While a detailed breakdown of savings isn’t provided, transmission planning and reserve sharing are expected to be major contributors. The study proposes a phased approach to achieving these benefits, favoring voluntary collaboration among states rather than the creation of a full-scale Regional Transmission Organization (RTO), an option considered politically challenging. Encouraging voluntary cooperation, addressing regulatory limitations on cross-state collaboration, and supporting a flexible grid adaptable to evolving energy sources and demands are also essential steps. Removing obstacles to renewable energy integration will further accelerate adoption and lower costs. Recognizing the political landscape, the emphasis is on state-led initiatives to overcome regulatory hurdles and foster cooperation. The study underscores that action at the state level is paramount for achieving the desired improvements in regional power system planning and realizing the estimated $3.25 billion in savings.

The Regional System Plan (RSP) is a critical tool developed by ISO New England to guide the electrical grid planning for the next decade, outlining necessary power grid needs and transmission upgrades to ensure grid reliability. As one of the organization's core responsibilities, the RSP serves as a valuable technical guide for policymakers, energy infrastructure developers, and owners, while also incorporating feedback from public forums attended by stakeholders such as market participants, state representatives, and advocates for consumers and the environment.