Generation
PJM drops Oklo advanced nuclear project from interconnection study cycle
Advanced nuclear technology company Oklo filed an "emergency complaint" with the U.S. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) last Friday, alleging that PJM Interconnection improperly removed its 750-megawatt power project, which includes advanced nuclear, natural gas, and fuel cells, from the interconnection study cycle. Oklo stated that PJM's decision would delay this project of "critical national importance" by at least 14 months and significantly increase development costs.
The rules of data center development are evolving. Is your strategy?
With the rapid adoption of AI technology, data center power demand continues to rise, but power availability, permitting approvals, community opposition, and emission limits are becoming key factors constraining industry growth. Bloom Energy's latest report indicates that developers are accelerating the shift toward on-site power generation and direct current power architecture, with expectations that by 2030, about one-third of U.S. data centers will rely entirely on on-site electricity.
US Army selects 5 companies to deploy microreactors at military installations
The U.S. Army announced on Wednesday that it has selected five companies to participate in its Janus program, deploying 1-20 megawatt nuclear microreactors at military bases. The project aims to provide resilient power for critical facilities while maintaining connection to the grid. Federal funding is approximately $2.2 billion, with private investment expected to make up the majority. The first reactors are planned to be operational by September 30, 2028.
Data center load made up 9% of PJM wholesale costs so far in 2026: market monitor
A recent report by PJM's market monitor, Monitoring Analytics, indicates that from January to July 2026, data center load accounted for 9% ($10.48/MWh) of PJM's wholesale electricity price costs, which are passed through the capacity market. Over the past four capacity auctions, growth in data center load increased capacity market revenues by a cumulative $29.4 billion. During the same period, PJM's total wholesale electricity price costs rose 46% year-over-year to $116.53/MWh.
Commonwealth Fusion Systems Secures $1 Billion in Funding to Accelerate Fusion Demonstration Reactor Construction
Commonwealth Fusion Systems in Devens, Massachusetts, raised $1 billion in its latest funding round, bringing total funding to $4 billion. The company plans to use the new funds to complete the SPARC demonstration reactor and advance the 400-megawatt commercial fusion power plant project in partnership with Dominion Energy.
PJM Restarts Remaining Interconnection Capacity Channel Reform, Plans to Adjust Hybrid Resource Market Rules
PJM Interconnection is considering adjusting the market participation model for hybrid resources to activate the remaining interconnection capacity channel. The previous SIS rule reform in early 2025 had limited effect, receiving only 8 applications and approving 2 since 2023. In contrast, MISO and SPP have made significant progress in remaining interconnection projects. PJM intends to allow hybrid resources to maintain a single identity in the capacity market while operating independently in the energy and ancillary service markets, a proposal supported by developer MN8 Energy and industry organization Advanced Energy United.
Electric co-ops press for repeal of gas power plant emissions rules
Chief executives of nonprofit electric cooperatives, including NRECA's Jim Matheson, pressed for full repeal of EPA's 2024 greenhouse gas standards for gas-fired power plants. They argue the 40% capacity factor threshold and carbon capture requirements are untenable, especially as data center demand soars. The EPA's proposed repeal rule remains stalled at OMB.
Pennsylvania Offers Expedited Permitting to Data Centers That Self-Supply Power
Pennsylvania will fast-track data center permits for projects that source electricity from new, firm clean power and agree to cover all associated costs, under an executive order signed by Governor Josh Shapiro. The move targets speculative developments and could impact existing utility contracts and transmission investment plans.
Electricity Affordability Dispute Escalates, Utility Profits Face Dual Pressure from Regulation and Legislation
Electricity affordability issues are pushing the profit levels of U.S. utility companies into the political and regulatory spotlight. From protests at a conference in Las Vegas, Nevada, to the ongoing Pepco rate case in Maryland, the battle over return on equity (ROE) is intensifying. Consumer advocacy groups and utility companies hold opposing views, and the surge in electricity demand driven by the AI boom adds a new variable to the debate.