PJM proposes curtailing new 50MW+ data centers in shortages
TL;DR. America's largest grid operator, PJM Interconnection, filed a proposal with FERC to prioritize power cuts for new large data centers lacking their own generation during electricity shortages. - The filing seeks to curtail facilities of 50 MW or more that connect after June 2027 without securing independent power. - This aims to address capacity shortfalls and protect residential consumers during grid stress. - The new rules would apply before PJM uses existing demand-response programs for other customers.
- PJM Interconnection proposed new rules to FERC for managing grid capacity.
- The rules target new data centers exceeding 50 MW that lack self-generation.
- Such facilities would face power curtailment before residential users during shortages.
- The measure responds to failed capacity auctions and projected load growth from 'massive AI data center buildouts'.