Will New FERC Orders Unlock Electricity for Data Centers?

In brief

On June 18, 2026, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission answered the Department of Energy’s advance notice of proposed rulemaking on data center interconnection by ordering regional grid operators to speed up power for large loads while protecting ratepayers from undue risk. Arushi joins CSIS scholars and guests, including Joseph Majkut, who leads the CSIS energy program, to ask whether the order’s approach will deliver on national priorities for the power sector.

Key points

1. 01The order covers only the six organized electricity markets FERC oversees, avoiding a conflict with state authority.
2. 02Grid operators must connect large loads faster without shifting undue risk to ratepayers.