Author: Josh Grindeland
PJM Large Load Interconnection Process Overview
Based on the recent PJM Board decision there have been measures taken to ensure PJM can accommodate Large Load submittals while maintaining reliability. Their framework is loosely defined as a transitional construct while broader industry and regulatory frameworks are developed further.
PJM defines Large Load as any request over 50MW at a single POI and is taking steps to develop a version of ERCOT’s Generation Interconnection Connect and Manage strategy for Large Loads. In doing so, PJM will have the ability to curtail Large Loads as defined by the States and Load Serving Entities (LSE) should grid conditions arise – while still rapidly connecting these resources.
Overall, PJM’s aim is to be developer friendly and not stifle the industry’s growth trajectory.
Interconnection Process – Bring Your Own New Generation (BYONG) vs Connect and Manage
The Board will not be creating a dedicated PJM Large Load Interconnection Process queue and has deferred much of the responsibility back to the states and localities. To that end, there will be a state review of PJM load forecasts on an annual basis. PJM’s aim is to have the LSE and the States work together to reduce duplicative submittals – ultimately creating more realistic study assumptions.
Connect and Manage
Large Load will be curtailed as a shortfall is identified between forecasted load and available generation prior to the deployment of pre-emergency Demand Response. PJM does not have the authority to curtail specific retail loads and will therefore rely on the LSE to develop a curtailment priority. PJM will have the responsibility to curtail a set amount of demand (prioritizing critical loads) from the LSE curtailment plans.
BYONG
PJM supports creating framework to allow State and LSE’s to Interconnect Large Loads and offset the additional demand via generation on an ELCC measured basis. This will allow Large Load customers to mitigate curtailment risks. The Expedited Interconnection Track will be in place by August 2026.
PJM Large Load interconnection Key Dates
With this process still being formalized through FERC filings, we should expect to see all of these topics in various PJM stakeholder meetings throughout Q1 and Q2 2026.
Figure 1 Link to Capacity Auction Price Collar Feedback
https://pjm.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_beFl9A5mqA61qR0
ZEG Insight
As PJM’s large load framework evolves, developers and large-load customers face a new set of strategic questions:
- How do curtailment risks impact project economics and siting decisions?
- When does BYONG meaningfully reduce reliability and market exposure?
- How should interconnection strategy change under Connect and Manage constraints?
We help developers, data center operators, and infrastructure investors translate PJM’s policy and technical requirements into actionable interconnection strategy. Through advanced grid modeling, interconnection analytics, and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) validation, ZEG enables stakeholders to quantify curtailment risk, evaluate POI options, and design mitigation pathways before committing capital.
If you’re planning a large load project in PJM, ZEG can help you understand risk, identify optimal interconnection pathways, and accelerate decision-making with technical confidence.
Talk to ZEG about large load interconnection strategy. Contact us today!
