SPP MOPC April 2026: Market Optimization, PRM Targets & Interconnection Updates

(1.) Market Operations & Topology 

RR747 – Economic Topology Optimization (ETO): 

• Core Objective: Implements Tariff and Protocol language allowing SPP and Market Participants to reconfigure the transmission system to reduce market costs while maintaining reliability.
• Key Features: Enables temporary adjustments to mitigate congestion; ensures TOP override authority and transparency through public posting.
• Status: Approved by MWG (71%) in Feb 2026; failed in ORWG (33%) in March 2026. 

(2.) Resource Adequacy & Planning Reserve Margins (PRM) 

2030 & 2032 PRM Targets: 

• Recommendation: Set 2030 at 17% Summer / 38% Winter and 2032 at 16% Summer / 36% Winter.
• Debate: A pending amendment (39% approval) proposes holding 2032 at the higher 17%/38% levels to account for load uncertainty, consistent with SPP Staff and CAWG preferences. 

RR703 – Demand Response & Peak Demand Assessment: 

• Alignment: Synchronizes language with Board-directed caps. Controllable non-registered DR is capped at 2,152 MW for 2027.
• Updates: Includes provisions for the new dual Balancing Authority Area (East/West) structure. 

(3.) RTO Expansion (RTO-E) 

RR745 – RTO Expansion Resource Adequacy: 

• Core Objective: Establishes distinct RA frameworks for SPP East (Classic) and SPP West (Expansion).
• Key Metrics: Sets the RTOE Base PRM at 19% Summer / 40% Winter, with formal ACAP implementation scheduled for 2027.
• Consensus: Unanimous 100% approval from RTOE Leadership, SAWG, and RTWG. 

(4.) Transmission Planning & Regulatory Compliance 

RR744 – FERC Order 1920 Compliance: 

• Core Objective: Updates Tariff for 20-year regional planning to meet the June 12 filing deadline.
• Key Updates: Includes new benefit metrics and explicitly incorporates “utility commitments” into long-term needs.
• Status: Unanimous 100% approval across all primary working groups. 

2026 ITP/CPP Scope Changes: 

• Focus: Endorses the inclusion of UHV and 765 kV overlay analysis to capture interactive benefits driven by rapid load growth. 

RR749 – NTC Commitment Timing: 

• Update: Condenses the commitment window for non-competitive projects from 90 to 30 days.
• Status: Approved by PCWG (6-5); feedback suggests some stakeholders may need longer for internal approvals.