By Gorodenkoff @Adobe Stock

Pennsylvania-New Jersey-Maryland Interconnection (PJM) is reforming its interconnection process to speed up the connection of new power generation and improve grid reliability amid rising electricity demand and costs. The organization has shifted to a “first-ready, first-served” model and cleared much of its backlog by requiring developers to meet stricter project milestones.

PJM is also introducing tools and initiatives—such as AI-assisted studies, expedited interconnection tracks, and improved use of existing grid capacity—to accelerate approvals and reduce delays. The effort is aimed at bringing more generation online faster, especially as demand grows from data centers and electrification.