Agenda 2026

The greatest challenge to expanding AI data centers continues to be accessed to power and grid connections. Initiatives backed by PJM states and the Data Center Coalition (DCC) incentivise 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?