Skip the Interconnection Queue?

Written by Cory Dillinger and Matthew Finnegan

For energy developers stuck in PJM’s interconnection backlog, Pennsylvania may be offering something rare: a faster lane.

Overview of the Expedited Interconnection Track (“EIT”)

PJM’s proposed EIT is designed to move a limited number of large, ready-to-build projects from application to interconnection agreement in under a year. For developers with advanced projects, it could mean the difference between waiting years—or breaking ground.

When and How?

• Launch target: August 2026
• Capacity: Up to 10 projects per year
• Timeline: ~10 months to secure a Generator Interconnection Agreement (“GIA”)

Unlike the traditional queue, the EIT is designed for speed—and only for projects that can prove they’re ready to move.

Why It Matters

PJM is facing rising demand from data centers, electrification, and industrial growth, while new generation struggles to come online quickly. The EIT aims to address that gap by prioritizing projects that can deliver meaningful capacity in the near term.

Who Should Pay Attention?

The EIT is not for early-stage development. It targets large, advanced projects that can demonstrate:

• Technical and financial readiness
• A credible path to construction
• Alignment with state policy goals

Projects may be submitted individually or as part of a developer-led consortium.

Key Eligibility Requirements

• Size Threshold:
  • At least 250 MW of accredited Unforced Capacity (“UCAP”)
  • Effectively limited to utility-scale generation or energy storage.
• Project Status:
  • New facility, or expansion of an existing facility with an executed GIA or Interconnection Service Agreement (“ISA”)
  • Projects already in PJM’s queue without a finalized agreement are not eligible.
• Speed to Operation:
  • Commercial operation within 36 months
  • Supported by a detailed construction schedule and independent engineer validation
• State Siting Support:
  • Evidence from a Primary Siting Authority (“PSA”) supporting expedited permitting.
  • The Commonwealth has not yet clarified which entities qualify
  • Required PSA evidence is expected to be addressed in future PJM Manual 14H guidance
• Full Site Control:
  • 100% control of the project site and interconnection facilities, demonstrated through a deed, a lease, or an option to lease or purchase

What Else Will the Commonwealth Look For?

Beyond baseline eligibility, Pennsylvania will evaluate how projects advance broader policy goals, including:

• Lower-cost, reliable energy supply
• Environmental protection and emissions reduction
• Strong labor practices (including prevailing wage)
• Community engagement and local benefits

Projects that address supply chain risks—particularly for gas generation—may also have an edge.

How to Respond

Developers interested in the EIT must submit responses to the DEP RFI:

• Deadline: June 5, 2026
• Length: 10 pages or fewer
• Submission: ra-epenergy@pa.gov
• Review: Rolling basis
• Submissions should cover project details, eligibility, permitting status, and alignment with state priorities. Pre-submittal questions are allowed (submitted to the same email address).

The Bottom Line

The EIT is a high-bar, high-reward opportunity. Only a handful of projects will make it through each year—and they’ll need to be:

• Large
• Fully sited
• Financeable
• Ready to build

For developers that can meet those standards, the payoff is significant: a chance to bypass years of delay and secure interconnection on an accelerated timeline.

If your project may qualify, now is the time to act. Contact MPL Law Firm today to evaluate your eligibility and position your project for this limited, high-impact opportunity.