How Long Is the PJM Interconnection Queue Wait Time? (2026 Tracker)
The PJM interconnection queue averages 36-48 months for datacenter projects over 100MW as of January 2026. The queue backlog exceeds 250GW with 2,600+ active projects. PJM is 33% slower than ERCOT but offers more predictable timelines.
- Large Projects (>100MW): 36-48 months
- Medium Projects (50-100MW): 30-42 months
- Small Projects (<50MW): 24-36 months
- Queue Backlog: 250GW+ (2,600+ projects)
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How Does PJM Queue Compare to ERCOT?
| Metric | PJM | ERCOT | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Wait Time | 36-48 months | 24-36 months | ERCOT (33% faster) |
| Queue Backlog | 250GW+ | 205GW | Similar |
| Timeline Predictability | High | Medium | PJM |
| Curtailment Risk | Low (capacity market) | Medium (energy-only) | PJM |
| Power Cost | $0.06-0.09/kWh | $0.03-0.05/kWh | ERCOT |
| Study Process | Cluster (annual windows) | Serial + Fast Track | ERCOT (flexibility) |
Site Selection Insight
Choose PJM for enterprise customers requiring ultra-low latency to Northern Virginia, NYC, or Philadelphia. Choose ERCOT for AI training where power cost matters more than location and 6-12 month faster energization justifies higher operational risk.
Which PJM Zones Have Shortest Queue Times?
| Zone | Location | Est. Wait Time | Capacity Status | Datacenter Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dominion | Northern Virginia | 42-54 months | Constrained | Highest (AWS, Azure, Google) |
| PSEG | New Jersey | 36-48 months | Moderate | High |
| ComEd | Chicago, IL | 30-40 months | Available | Growing |
| PECO | Philadelphia, PA | 30-40 months | Available | Moderate |
| BGE | Baltimore, MD | 32-42 months | Available | Growing |
| AEP | Ohio/WV | 28-38 months | Available | Emerging |
What Are PJM Interconnection Study Costs?
$50-100K
Feasibility Study
Initial grid impact assessment
$100-300K
System Impact Study
Detailed reliability analysis
$200-500K
Facilities Study
Engineering & cost estimates
Network Upgrade Cost Warning
Beyond study costs, PJM may require network upgrades totaling $10-50M+ for large datacenter projects. These costs are often shared among clustered projects but represent significant capital at risk if project doesn't proceed.
How Can You Speed Up PJM Interconnection?
Site Selection Strategies
- 1.Target zones with available capacity (ComEd, PECO, AEP)
- 2.Locate near recently upgraded substations
- 3.Consider behind-the-meter generation to reduce load
- 4.Avoid constrained corridors (NoVA, NJ coastal)
M&A & Development Strategies
- 1.Acquire queue positions from stalled projects
- 2.Partner with existing generators for co-location
- 3.Use cluster study approach for cost sharing
- 4.Engage PJM-experienced consultants early
Our Methodology
This PJM queue analysis is based on:
- Data sources: PJM Queue Management system, OASIS data, utility filings
- Project tracking: 2,600+ active queue positions monitored weekly
- Completion analysis: 500+ projects that reached Commercial Operation Date (COD)
- Index integration: Time-to-Power Score (TTPS) for 40+ markets
- Last updated: January 8, 2026
Limitations: Queue times vary by project size, location, and required upgrades. Actual timelines may differ from estimates. Consult PJM directly for project-specific guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the PJM interconnection queue wait time?
The PJM interconnection queue averages 36-48 months for datacenter projects over 100MW as of January 2026. Smaller projects (<50MW) may complete in 24-36 months. The queue backlog exceeds 250GW with 2,600+ active projects.
Which PJM zones have shortest queue times?
ComEd (Chicago), PECO (Philadelphia), and BGE (Baltimore) zones have relatively shorter queue times (30-40 months) due to stronger grid infrastructure. Northern Virginia (Dominion zone) has the longest waits (42-54 months) due to datacenter concentration.
What is PJM's new cluster study process?
PJM's cluster study process (effective 2023) groups projects in annual windows rather than serial first-come-first-served. This aims to reduce study time from 4+ years to 2-3 years by studying similar projects together.
Grid & Power Strategy
Explore More
Related Tools
CSS (Curtailment Stress Score)
Real-time grid congestion and curtailment risk by zone
Open ToolTrack Your PJM Queue Position
Get real-time Time-to-Power Scores across PJM zones and compare to other markets.
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