USA: PJM has presented its recommended transmission projects to strengthen the reliability of the electric grid, following the meeting of its Transmission Expansion Advisory Committee (TEAC) on 6 January.
The company selected the final projects from 134 proposals submitted by 19 entities, including 57 new greenfield projects and 77 upgrades to existing facilities. The proposals cover a range of work, from facility upgrades to new extra-high-voltage lines at 500 kV and 765 kV, as well as grid-enhancing technologies like underground HVDC and advanced conductors. The total cost of the proposed expansion is estimated at $11.6 B.
The proposals are part of the 2025 Regional Transmission Expansion Plan (RTEP) Window 1 and will now be reviewed by PJM’s Board of Managers for approval. Sami Abdulsalam, Director of Transmission Planning, provided an overview of the system needs targeted by this planning window and outlined the projects suggested by PJM staff to address them.
The planning period, open from 18 June to 18 August, 2025, considered requirements across PJM’s eastern, southern, and western regions. Key drivers include growing electricity demand, new generation in southern Virginia, delays or potential cancellations of New Jersey offshore wind projects, and rising regional power flows toward the eastern areas of the PJM footprint.
PJM has already shared analyses on reliability, constructability, and construction, and is encouraging stakeholder feedback via custsvc@pjm.com. Comments will be considered by both the Planning Department and the Board.
The Board of Managers is expected to make its decision on the selected projects during the first quarter of 2026.
Source: PJM Inside Lines
