PJM approves 2.1 gigawatts in fast-track grid interconnection projects

The PJM Interconnection grid operator approved three initial power projects totaling 2.1 gigawatts under its Expedited Interconnection Track process on Thursday, Utility Dive reported. The approved developments include two battery storage facilities from Engie IR Holdings and a gas-fired plant expansion proposed by a unit of LS Power. [1]

Utility Dive reported that the grid operator expects all three projects to be online by mid-2029. Engie plans to construct an 860-megawatt storage facility in Crawford, Pennsylvania, alongside a separate 800-megawatt storage project, bringing its total planned storage additions to nearly 1.7 gigawatts. [1]

The final approved project in the fast-track process is an uprate to an existing gas-fired plant proposed by LS Power that will add 455 megawatts of capacity, according to Utility Dive. LS Power is an American independent power company that owns, operates, and develops power generating stations, energy storage facilities, and electric transmission lines. [1][2]

Engie focuses its business strategy on investments in energy transition technologies, including solar, wind, hydrogen, and efficiency services, while managing legacy thermal power and natural gas assets. [4]