The PJM Board of Managers on Feb. 12 approved multiple transmission projects to reinforce the reliability of the electric grid.
The proposals are part of the 2025 Regional Transmission Expansion Plan Window (RTEP Window), which addresses separate needs in the eastern, southern and western areas of the PJM footprint.
Those needs are driven by accelerated load growth in multiple regions; new generation in southern Virginia and the need to support future generation developments in western PJM; current delays of New Jersey offshore wind projects; and increased regional flows toward the eastern portions of PJM’s footprint.
The estimated total cost for this expansion of the transmission system is about $11.8 billion.                                                             “We know that if PJM makes certain improvements, like opening up the interconnection queue, implementing a seasonal capacity market, and removing barriers to energy storage, customers can save hundreds of dollars over the next few years,” said Alex Ambrose, a member of PowerPlay NJ, which advocates for clean energy.          Â
Sami Abdulsalam, director of transmission planning, last presented an update on Jan. 6 of the major system needs targeted by the RTEP Window and details of projects recommended by PJM Planning staff to meet them.
PJM chose the final recommended projects from a total of 134 proposals – 57 greenfield projects and 77 upgrades to existing facilities – submitted by 19 entities.
The selected proposals range from basic facility upgrades to new extra-high-voltage transmission lines (500 kV and 765 kV) and grid enhancing technologies, including advanced conductors and the first underground HVDC line within PJM’s footprint.
PJM initially briefed stakeholders on the submitted proposals at the Oct. 8, 2025, TEAC meeting. PJM then reviewed the short list of proposals being considered during the Nov. 4, 2025, meeting. Finally, it presented first and second reads of the final set of proposed solutions at the Dec. 8, 2025, and Jan. 6 meetings.
