Critical
RTO Insider
On October 12, 2026, FERC approved Duke Energy Carolinas' proposed rule changes for large load network upgrades. These revisions aim to reduce the risk of cost-shifting to other customers when infrastructure upgrades are required to serve large energy users, such as data centers.
While the approval represents progress, three FERC commissioners raised concerns about the broader need for reforms to ensure fair cost allocation across the industry. The decision comes as utilities face increasing demand for grid modernization to support large-scale energy consumers.
Why it matters: This approval establishes a regulatory precedent for addressing cost allocation challenges tied to grid upgrades. It may influence utilities, large energy users, and ratepayers nationwide as the energy sector adapts to growing infrastructure demands.