Traditional Integrated Resource Planning (IRP) models are facing unprecedented pressure as utilities navigate aggressive clean energy mandates alongside soaring load growth. While NERC highlights that 200 MW to 1 GW hyperscale facilities can be deployed in just 2–3 years, scaling matching generation requires 3–5 years, and building backbone transmission takes nearly a decade. With PJM forecasting up to 40 GW of new data center load over the next decade and ERCOT projecting 24 GW by 2031, it's clear that a fundamental rethink of integrated system planning is required. Piecemeal approaches are no longer viable, as utilities need to evaluate transmission, generation, and load in a whole new way.

A panel of executive leaders from Investor-Owned Utilities (IOUs), electric cooperatives, ISO/RTOs, and hyperscale data center developers will outline what this planning evolution means on a practical level. Their discussion will focus on operationalized solutions to bridge the infrastructure gap, including innovative regulatory frameworks, flexible load-tariff structures, co-location strategies, and accelerated grid-modernization technologies.

Presenters to be announced!