Press Release

PUC Updates Public Comment Process on Electric Grid Reliability Proceeding

Published on 11/5/2026

Filed under: Electric

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today approved a Clarification Order updating its recent order issued in early October examining electric utility plans to protect grid reliability during periods of peak demand and limited electric supply.

The clarification reflects a recent Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) decision that rejected portions of a PJM Interconnection proposal related to its Interim Resource Adequacy Service (IRAS) framework. As a result, the PUC is no longer seeking comment on proposed pre-emergency curtailment provisions tied specifically to IRAS.

The Commission will continue seeking stakeholder input on proposed changes to electric distribution company emergency load-control procedures, including how utilities should manage large electric loads during grid emergencies when electricity demand threatens to exceed available supply. The proposal continues to focus on ensuring that critical facilities and essential public services remain protected during emergency conditions.

The Commission notes that it is revising the public comment schedule. Comments will now be due 20 days after publication of the clarification order in the Pennsylvania Bulletin, with reply comments due 30 days after publication. Full details are included in the Clarification Order.

The proceeding was initiated as part of the Commission's broader effort to address the potential impacts of large-load growth, including data centers, on Pennsylvania's electric system. The PUC’s focus centers on ensuring transparent and orderly procedures for managing electric demand during times of significant grid stress and emergency.

About the PUC

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

Visit the PUC’s website at puc.pa.gov for recent news releases and video of select proceedings. You can also follow us on X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube. Search for the “Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission” or “PA PUC” on your favorite social media channel for updates on utility issues and other helpful consumer information.

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Docket No.: M-2026-3064961

Contact:

• Nils Hagen-Frederiksen
  Press Secretary
  717-418-2701
  nhagen-fre@pa.gov
• David Hixson
  Deputy Press Secretary
  717-772-2766
  dhixson@pa.gov