Understanding Large Load Interconnection Processes for Data Centers and Grids

RMI provides an overview of the large load interconnection process and resources via its “The Path to Power: Connecting Large Loads” series (April 14, 2026) authored by Tyler Farrell, Claire Wayner, Sarah Wang, Mark Lozano, and Chaz Teplin.

• Main announcement/action: RMI published an explanatory article describing the six-step large load interconnection process (Preliminary Inquiry and Scoping; Interconnection Request; Feasibility Study; System Impact Study; Facilities Study; Interconnection Agreement), noting large loads ≈20 MW+ (e.g., data centers) typically require transmission-level connection, and that the full process can take several months to several years. The article directs readers to RMI’s Large Load Tariffs Dashboard and references a technical report by Elevate Energy and GridLab for more detail.
• Background and implementation details: The piece explains cost responsibility: customer interconnection facilities are typically allocated entirely to the interconnecting large load customer, while network upgrades are generally allocated across the transmission provider’s service territory using FERC-approved methodologies and then allocated to retail customers via state PUC ratemaking; it also references specific resources and regulatory actors (RTO/ISO, NERC, ESIG) and provides links to tariff and technical report sources.