Keynote panel: Behind-the-meter and on-time - The BYOP playbook for 2026

September 02, 2026
Datacloud USA stage - Level 3
Datacloud USA

The greatest challenge to expanding AI data centers continues to be access to power and grid connections. Initiatives backed by PJM states and the Data Center Coalition (DCC) incentivize obtaining generating capacity, in exchange for expedited interconnection. The key question revolves around the limitations in generating capacity from order back-logs and supply chain bottlenecks.

  • What headlines should be taken from the past 18 months of reforms and objections? What issues are still outstanding?
  • Which moves towards data center power should leaders view as positive steps and why?
  • To what extent have regulatory changes fundamentally impacted data center siting and power strategies?
  • What further recommendations should the industry pursue now to reduce time to power while protecting ratepayers?
Chairperson
Mark Brasher
Mark Brasher, Partner - Energy & Infrastructure Projects - VINSON & ELKINS RLLP
Speakers
Sean James
Sean James, Distinguished Engineer - Energy Systems - NVIDIA
Colin McLean
Colin McLean, Chief Revenue Officer - DIGITAL REALTY
Risto Paldanius
Risto Paldanius, Vice President, Energy Americas - Wärtsilä Energy, NA
David Bell
David Bell, VP of Data Center & MicroGrid Development - Voltagrid LLC
Emilio Vicens
Emilio Vicens, Chief Executive Officer - Gray Oak Power Management LLC