FERC ordered six regional grid operators to justify or revise large-load connection rules within 60 days, while requiring generation adequacy reports within 30 days, the agency said Thursday.
The commission issued Section 206 show-cause orders to all six Regional Transmission Organizations and Independent System Operators, directing them to justify existing tariffs or propose revisions for large-load customers, including data centers and manufacturers, FERC said.
FERC said the initiative aims to accelerate large-load integration while preserving reliable and affordable electricity service.
The agency added that the effort supports artificial intelligence development, economic growth, and the return of manufacturing investment to the US.
"We are setting the stage for a resilient, reliable, and forward-thinking grid that empowers communities and safeguards consumers," FERC Chairman Laura Swett said.
She added that the action provides greater certainty for investors while supporting technological and economic expansion.
The commission rejected a uniform national approach, saying each grid operator faces different market structures, stakeholder priorities and demand trends.
FERC said regional flexibility offers the most efficient path for integrating large energy-intensive customers.
Under the first reform category, FERC asked operators to improve transmission application and study procedures, including evaluating alternative transmission technologies that could speed service to large-load customers.
The second and third reform areas focus on preventing cost shifting, increasing transparency around transmission expenses, accommodating co-location arrangements and addressing behind-the-meter generation resources, the agency said.
FERC also directed operators to examine new transmission products for flexible large-load customers and establish processes for evaluating generation facilities that serve nearby or co-located large energy users.
The commission ordered each grid operator and its transmission owners to submit reports within 30 days detailing plans to maintain sufficient generation capacity, including stakeholder proposals, filing schedules and initiatives designed to accelerate new power supply additions.
The orders apply to PJM Interconnection, Midcontinent Independent System Operator, Southwest Power Pool, California Independent System Operator, ISO New England and New York Independent System Operator, while FERC also included the transmission owners within each regional market in the proceedings.