MISO asks FERC for a 120-day study path for loads over 200 MW paired with local generation
Victoria Shinder1 min readThe Midcontinent Independent System Operator asked the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission on 2 October to approve a fast-track process for studying large new loads together with the generation that will supply them, Utility Dive reports.
What is proposed. The Large Load Addition Resource Study, or LARS, would take 120 days. It would be open to loads larger than 200 MW paired with new generation in the same local resource zone; MISO has ten such zones, which broadly follow state boundaries. Up to ten applications would be studied in each of three annual study periods, and applicants would face requirements such as non-refundable deposits meant to filter out speculative projects.
Why together. MISO argues that running the load and generation interconnection studies in parallel produces more efficient network-upgrade solutions. In its filing it says the aim is not necessarily the cheapest solution for either side, but the one that best fits both.
Why now. Planned data centres and factories drive MISO's demand forecast; the operator told FERC it expects load to grow by 1% to 3% a year through 2044. The proposal also responds in part to a FERC finding in mid-June that MISO's rules for large loads, including loads and generation located near each other, were inadequate.
Timing. MISO asked FERC to rule by 2 December so the first study period can open early next year. MISO runs the grid and wholesale markets in 15 states from Louisiana to Minnesota.