SPP Approves New Policy to Expedite Grid Connections for Large Electricity Users
LITTLE ROCK, ARK. – Southwest Power Pool (SPP) has announced a new ”High Impact large Load” (HILL) policy designed to streamline the process for connecting large-scale electricity consumers – such as data centers and major manufacturers – to the power grid, while maintaining reliability and affordability for all members.
The HILL policy, approved by SPP’s board of directors, is the result of extensive collaboration between SPP staff and stakeholders. It addresses the growing demand from companies seeking rapid grid access to support notable energy needs.
“Large loads want answers now. They are motivated to invest and are looking for opportunities to connect to the grid now,” said Casey Cathey, SPP vice president for engineering.”We’re striving to stay ahead of the game.”
The new process integrates transmission service, generation, and interconnection studies into a single framework, enabling faster and more informed decision-making. SPP will implement a 90-day study-and-approval timeline for large loads connecting with new or planned generation, and will accelerate interconnection for loads utilizing existing or future generation resources.
SPP emphasizes its commitment to grid reliability and system integrity. The HILL process allows for early identification of potential constraints, improved coordination, and proactive readiness for real-time impacts.
For developers, the policy offers increased market efficiency, openness, and faster entry, with clearer price signals and more predictable timelines.
“I’m very pleased we’ve adopted a policy that addresses an urgent need and opportunity in the SPP region,” said board member Stuart Solomon. “This is a great example of our stakeholder process at its best,and I’m confident we now have an excellent approach to meeting the needs of our members and large-load customers.”
About SPP: Southwest Power Pool, Inc. is a regional transmission organization mandated by the Federal energy Regulatory Commission to ensure reliable power supplies, adequate transmission infrastructure, and competitive wholesale electricity prices for its members in 14 states. SPP provides energy services across a vast region of the central and western U.S. and is expanding its reach with a developing day-ahead energy market in the west. SPP is headquartered in Little Rock, Arkansas. Learn more at SPP.org.