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Alternative Technology Resource Pilots

PJM provides opportunities for new technologies to integrate into the bulk electric system. PJM partners with alternative technology resource pilots stakeholders to facilitate qualified projects’ participation in PJM’s Energy, Capacity and Ancillary Services Markets.

Alternative technology resource pilots bring alternative energy resources with the latest digital and information technology onto the grid. These resources improve grid reliability and promote robust markets.

PJM works with member companies, other innovators, research and academic institutions, and industry experts to advance the technology on the grid and strengthen the power supply infrastructure of our region. PJM also engages in activities that support the concept of Price Responsive Demand (PDF).

Pilots encompass projects that focus on enabling key technologies, such as various types of energy storage: batteries, compressed air energy storage solutions (CAES), flywheels, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs); smart meters, appliances and buildings with integrated two-way communications that have sensing and measuring capabilities for advanced control methods. Projects currently under consideration fall into two categories: non-economically driven projects, referred to as proof of concept initiatives, and turnkey projects that are fully integrated into PJM’s markets and operations.

Pilot Development Process

The first step in initiating a project for review with PJM is to fill out the questionnaire (PDF). Using the questionnaire, project owners determine their qualifications for a pilot with PJM. Project owners also must complete PJM’s non-disclosure agreement. To start the NDA process and look for more details, a pilot project owner can directly contact PJM Customer Service (610-666-8980) for help.

PJM has also developed an Alternative Technology Road Map (PDF) to help interested parties in initiating a pilot project.

The four phases for pilots’ entry into the Energy Market and Ancillary Services Market are:

  • Initiation Phase - The proposing project stakeholders work with PJM to determine appropriate involvement and demonstrate the technology.
  • Planning Phase - PJM and the project stakeholders enter into non-disclosure agreements, and investigate membership requirements. Both parties develop work plan scope and responsibilities.
  • Implementation Phase - PJM and the project stakeholders integrate the technology into PJM markets and operations systems and complete any requested studies and lessons learned.
  • Monitoring, feedback and closeout phase – PJM and the project stakeholders review and closeout the project.