INTRODUCTION —

SI2’s Focus:  A Smarter Grid Connection Framework

According to Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL),  the U.S. interconnection backlog grew in 2023, with nearly 2,600 gigawatts of new generation and storage projects waiting to connect to the grid. 

As energy demand is surging in the U.S.,  the large backlogs, wait times, and withdrawal rates of projects underscore the need for improved interconnection processes. 

This white paper release by the Solar and Storage Industries Institute (SI2),  builds on recent analyses from LBNL and the U.S. Department of Energy,  and proposes new solutions that would  result in lower interconnection costs, a more robust transmission system ,and faster build out of clean energy projects. 

Read more in the white paper here

“We can’t keep saddling the interconnection process with all the costs of transmission system upgrades. This process is akin to contracting a paving firm to replace your driveway in upstate New York and getting a bill for the driveway and the cost of building a new exit ramp off I-95 in New Jersey.”  

– David Gahl, Executive Director, SI2