Panel Discussion: Moving through Permitting & Interconnection Issues
While permitting and interconnection have historically been low obstacles in Texas, a major shift is underway in ERCOT’s interconnection framework, as the Standard Generation Interconnection Agreement (SGIA) and PUCT Rule §25.195 introduce a new cost-sharing model that places greater interconnection financial responsibility on generators starting in 2026. Timing, siting decisions, and capital planning are now critical to maintaining project viability, as new FEOC construction deadlines, rising local opposition, and the approaching 90th session increase pressure on developers to move quickly while adapting to evolving requirements. This panel will explore how these changes impact project strategy, financing, and timelines in Texas.
- What new strategies are emerging to optimize siting and interconnection in Texas today? Are they different in ERCOT vs non-ERCOT areas? Could SB 819 make a comeback?
- SGIA: How high are the new costs? What about transparency and reporting requirements: are they reshaping how developers assess interconnection costs and risks?
- FEOC vs siting vs interconnection: Could these rules change which projects are safe harbored, and how are developers assessing new regulations, costs, and local obstacles?
- PUCT updated Rule §25.195: What is this changing and how do Transmission Service Providers (TSPs) recover the costs in 2026? Is the cap workable?
- What can ERCOT learn from MISO or other regions? Are increased milestone payments, automatic withdrawal penalties, MISO’s surplus interconnection and generation replacement project, or other new policies on the table?
- Local opposition: Is misinformation or NIMBYism in the rise, and how much time should developers take on communicating with local leaders? What’s fallen out of the queue due to all of the above?
