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Jun 16, 2026

Are our electric grids too big to function?

On July 23rd, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission will hold a meeting to discuss possible reforms to PJM Interconnection LLC, the nation's largest electric grid operator. Utility Dive’s Ethan Howland breaks down what led to this moment.

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Are our electric grids too big to function?
Joe Raedle/Getty Images

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With the rapid expansion of data center infrastructure across the U.S., demand for power is growing. But as utility bills continue to rise, states and grid operators are turning to address problems in grid infrastructure.

Reliability and affordability are among the largest concerns for regulators and consumers alike. On July 23, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission will hold a meeting with PJM Interconnection LLC, the nation’s largest electric grid operator, to address these issues.

“Marketplace Tech” host Meghan McCarty Carino spoke with Ethan Howland, a senior reporter at Utility Dive, about how these problems may get addressed, and what’s at stake for the United States power grid.

More on this

PJM may be ‘too big to function’: FERC Chairman Swett - from Utility Dive

AI Data Center Boom Risks Breakup of Biggest US Power Grid Operator - from Bloomberg

The Team