PJM Interconnection has approved the first three projects through its Expedited Interconnection Track, a fast-track review designed to bring larger generation and storage online quickly. The grid operator said the projects, totaling 2.1 GW, are expected to be operating by mid-2029.
Engie IR Holdings will build two storage facilities: an 860-MW project in Crawford, Pennsylvania, and an 800-MW project in Morrow, Ohio. LS Power will add 455 MW to its existing 810-MW combined cycle Hunterstown plant in Adams, Pennsylvania.
The approvals come as PJM faces tight supply conditions, with little generation added in recent years while data center growth pushes demand forecasts higher. The Expedited Interconnection Track, approved by FERC in June, is open to projects larger than 250 MW that have backing from a primary siting authority and can begin operating within three years. PJM will consider up to 10 requests per year under the process, which expires at the end of 2027.
PJM described the temporary track as one part of broader efforts to add capacity, including a pending reliability backstop procurement, updated surplus interconnection service rules, and a reformed generator interconnection process.