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This briefing by RMI argues that PJM can address rapid load growth and high energy costs by streamlining the interconnection process for Energy Resource Interconnection Service (ERIS) resources. Based on analysis by Aurora Energy Research, the document asserts that energy-only resources, particularly wind and solar, are financially viable without capacity revenues and could provide significant cost savings to ratepayers if the interconnection pathway is reformed to prioritize speed and minimal network upgrades.

The US generator interconnection process is a significant barrier to economic competitiveness, with over 2.2 TW of projects queued and average wait times increasing to nearly five years. While FERC Order 2023 introduced some improvements, the brief argues for further reforms: deploying AI and advanced software for studies, utilizing Grid-enhancing technologies (GETs) to lower costs, and implementing 'fast track' pathways for energy-only, surplus, and replacement generation. It also suggests integrating the planning of load, generation, and transmission to reduce redundant network upgrades.

This policy brief by RMI argues that PJM's slow interconnection process and high network upgrade costs are driving a capacity crisis in the mid-Atlantic grid. The document highlights how the time required to bring new generation online has increased to eight years, causing capacity auction prices to skyrocket and increasing costs for ratepayers. RMI proposes four primary solutions: implementing third-party automation software, reforming Energy Resource Interconnection Service (ERIS), utilizing advanced transmission technologies (ATTs), and prioritizing proactive regional transmission planning.

This report by RMI argues that battery energy storage systems (BESS) can enhance grid reliability and affordability by providing resource adequacy, stability, and resilience. Using California and Texas as successful models, the document highlights how well-defined ancillary service markets and clear interconnection rules allow batteries to compete with fossil fuel generators, reducing costs and improving grid stability. It specifically contrasts these successes with the PJM region, where high uplift costs and interconnection hurdles hinder battery deployment.

This policy brief by RMI outlines the potential for 'clean repowering'—siting new renewable energy projects at existing fossil fuel interconnection points—to accelerate the energy transition and reduce costs for customers in the United States by leveraging Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) incentives.

RMI analyzes clean energy market options for PJM, arguing that accurately accounting for the capacity value of clean resources reduces costs and emissions. The report evaluates the Forward Clean Energy Market and Integrated Clean Capacity Market designs, noting that while they can produce optimal outcomes, state carve-out policies introduce cost and emission trade-offs. RMI recommends that PJM and RASTF remove barriers to clean energy participation in the capacity market and that states collaborate to define a standardized clean energy product to streamline procurement and accelerate decarbonization.

This research paper by Energy Innovation analyzes the potential costs to electricity customers of a US Department of Energy (DOE) Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NOPR) that would provide out-of-market subsidies to power plants with a 90-day on-site fuel supply, specifically targeting coal and nuclear facilities.

This briefing by Energy Innovation describes two distinct applications of demand-response (DR) programs: as a capacity resource to mitigate peak demand and as a balancing tool to integrate variable renewable energy. The document argues that DR is a cost-effective alternative to building new power generation or investing in expensive grid-scale battery storage.

The PJM Cities and Communities Coalition (PJMCCC) Charter outlines the governance, membership, and strategic goals of a coalition of local governments and communities within the PJM territory. The coalition aims to remove barriers to decarbonization in the regional wholesale electricity market through capacity building, partnerships, and collective action.