Accelerating Reliable Integration 

MISO members are seeing an unprecedented surge in large load interconnection requests, driven by data centers, advanced manufacturing, AI computing facilities and other energy-intensive industries. These projects are reshaping the grid in both scale and speed, with many seeking to connect within 18–36 months, far faster than traditional generation and transmission build timelines. 

Underscoring the need to support these fast-growing loads, on June 18, 2026, FERC directed all RTOs/ISOs, including MISO, to update large load tariff provisions (195 FERC ¶ 61,212) to demonstrate that existing and planned approaches adequately support large load interconnection.  

To keep pace, we’ve already accelerated interconnection and transmission solutions through Expedited Resource Addition Study (ERAS) and MTEP's Expedited Project Review (EPR). Now, MISO is executing on a three-part framework that we believe is directionally consistent with FERC’s order.  

MISO’s Framework 

1. Connect quickly: Large loads can get MISO approval within 120 days with all studies and GIAs signed. 

• Solutions that enable this objective: Co-located resources (ZGIA), expedited generation (ERAS), fast load studies (EPR), new study process / solution (under development). 
• Needs: Certainty on transmission needs and associated costs: Generation only, load only, generation-load combination. 

2. Transition and scale with flexibility: Large loads can transition and scale with flexible options consistent with timing of network upgrade buildouts. 

• Solutions that enable this objective: Co-located resources (ZGIA), non-firm service option, firm service step-up option. 

• Needs: Curtailment capability, resource adequacy coordination, efficient use of existing transmission capacity.  

3. Operate with long-term reliability: Large loads sustain reliable operations with the ability to withdraw or inject energy based on conditions and signals. 

• Solutions that enable this objective: Clear requirements, operations system enhancements, market pricing signals, demand response  and new reserve market products.  

• Needs: Real-time telemetry and coordination, curtailment capability, ride-through, stability control, resilience, security. 

 Why Large Load Integration Matters 

• Growing Demand: Large load requests have surged dramatically with the potential to add thousands of megawatts to the system. 

• Fast Timeline: Large loads can be built in 1.5–3 years, while transmission and generation take much longer. 

• Reliability Challenges: Unique characteristics of large loads impact grid stability and operations. 

• Urgent Need: Members need solutions now and federal policy mandates faster interconnections.