PJM board files FERC proposals and new data center plan to manage load and capacity shortfalls

PJM board filed two FERC proposals—Reliability Backstop Procurement and Connect and Manage—including a virtual 'pause button' for data centers and a Large Load Registry. Now PJM has proposed a new plan requiring data centers to buy their own power or face disconnection, further tightening cost allocation. The new plan includes a secondary auction for data centers, addresses a 6 GW shortfall, and requires state action. Google's VPP via Voltus demonstrates non-wires alternatives. Pennsylvania advances HB 2223 requiring advanced transmission technologies in planning and data center reporting, reinforcing the cost-causer-pays trend. PJM also issued a five-year strategic plan emphasizing market reforms, state alignment, and accelerated transmission/interconnection.