PJM’s Reliability Resource Initiative Results to Be Discussed at Appalachian AI Energy Conference

Conference Will Discuss Impact on AI Data Centers

PITTSBURGH, PA, UNITED STATES, May 13, 2025 /EINPresswire.com/ -- PJM Interconnection’s Reliability Resource Initiative (RRI) marks a pivotal response to surging electricity demand across the Mid-Atlantic and Midwest, with direct implications for the rapid expansion of AI data centers in the Appalachian Basin.

Key Results of the Reliability Resource Initiative

• Selection of 51 Projects: PJM has approved 51 generation resource projects, collectively delivering over 9,300 MW of reliable capacity. This includes 39 uprates to existing natural gas, nuclear, coal, and onshore wind facilities, and 12 new construction projects-half of which are gas, five are battery storage, and one is nuclear.

• Accelerated Timeline: Approximately 90% of these projects are expected to be operational by 2030, with all online by 2031. The initiative specifically targeted shovel-ready resources with short lead times to quickly bolster grid reliability

• Capacity Breakdown: The uprates will add 2,108 MW of unforced capacity (UCAP), while new projects contribute 7,253 MW UCAP, resulting in a combined total of 9,361 MW. UCAP reflects the energy a resource can reliably provide during periods of highest system risk.

• Rigorous Selection Process: Out of 94 applicants, projects were chosen based on a weighted system prioritizing UCAP, in-service date, effective load carrying capability, and location in zones with the greatest need for generation. A tie in scoring led to 51 projects being selected instead of the originally planned 50

• Interconnection Reform: The initiative is part of broader reforms approved by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, shifting PJM’s process from “first-come, first-served” to “first-ready, first-served,” which aims to expedite projects that are most likely to reach completion

Impact on AI Data Center Development in the Appalachian Basin

Bryce Custer, a leading expert in AI data center site selection, will address the Appalachian AI Energy Conference to discuss how PJM’s RRI directly supports the burgeoning demand for AI infrastructure in the region. The Appalachian AI Energy Conference on May 21 at the Hilton Garden Inn will feature Custer as well as speakers from CNX, Black & Veatch, Siemens Energy and TECfusion.

Key Points from Custer’s Perspective:

• Power Demand: AI data centers are projected to require between 35 and 85 GW of power by 2029-placing immense pressure on the U.S. grid. The RRI’s rapid addition of capacity is critical for meeting this demand, especially in regions like the Appalachian Basin with abundant energy resources

• Regional Advantages: The Appalachian Basin offers cost-effective natural gas, robust infrastructure, low disaster risk, and favorable regulatory conditions, making it a prime destination for new data center investments

• Strategic Positioning: By accelerating the deployment of reliable generation, the RRI enhances the region’s ability to attract and sustain large-scale AI data centers, supporting both economic growth and technological innovation

“The Appalachian Basin holds tremendous potential for advancing AI data center development. These opportunities are evolving, and this region is uniquely positioned to meet the growing demands of this critical industry,” said Bryce Custer, Vice President, Energy Services, NAI BurnsScalo

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Event Details

• Date: May 21, 2025

• Location: Hilton Garden Inn Pittsburgh Southpointe

• Registration: appaaienergy.com

Media Contact
Joe Barone
Shale Directories
jbarone@shaledirectories.com
610-764-1232
The Appalachian AI Energy Conference is organized by Shale Directories and the H2-CCS Network, bridging energy innovation and AI infrastructure demands.

Joe Barone
Shale Directories
+1 610-764-1232
jfbarone@comcast.net