MANY MINDEDFERC allows statistical sampling for virtual power plants in critical grid market
On August 13, 2026, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) ordered PJM Interconnection to accept statistical sampling as a valid method for measuring virtual power plant (VPP) reliability. This resolves a barrier preventing VPPs from participating in PJM's constrained energy-capacity market, which serves 67 million people across 13 states. Under current rules, PJM was losing at least 4.9 gigawatts of capacity due to data access restrictions—most utilities in the region do not provide smart-meter data required for demand-response programs. The ruling follows advocacy by Voltus and Mission:data Coalition, while PJM Interconnection opposed it. FERC found statistical sampling valid where interval meter data is unavailable, overriding PJM's independent market monitor. PJM must now launch a stakeholder proceeding within 45 days to determine implementation.
This technical shift addresses a core constraint: VPPs previously couldn't compete in PJM's critical energy market because utilities lacked the data infrastructure. By permitting statistical sampling, FERC enables distributed energy resources to contribute to grid resilience without requiring real-time meter data from all participants.
For electricity access, this could free up 4.9 gigawatts of capacity in a region where 67 million people rely on grid stability. Improved participation from distributed resources may reduce localized power shortages during peak demand, directly supporting energy security for communities in PJM's footprint. The next 45 days will determine whether this ruling translates into tangible grid resilience for households and businesses.
Caveats: FERC does not control state data privacy regulations; the order takes effect only after stakeholder implementation; PJM's market monitor opposed the approach. The 4.9 gigawatts figure represents capacity lost under current rules as stated by FERC.
Source: Canary Media