Solar power’s lost opportunity in PJM

The report expected wind and solar resources to grow between three and eight times over the next 15 years. The prediction didn’t factor in the near-paralysis in the PJM interconnection queue as project proposals poured in.

“Let’s call it sort of a slow-motion car pileup,” said Kent Chandler, former chair of the Kentucky Public Service Commission. PJM has tended to react to problems, not get ahead of them, added Chandler, who led the Organization of PJM States, a sounding board for state interests in the regional grid.  

“It seems like PJM management fixes issues with a ‘squeaky wheel gets the grease’ mindset,” Chandler added. “Whatever issue poses the biggest risk, that’s the one they go to next.”