U.S. Energy Department Announce $30 Million to Shorten Interconnection Timelines Through AI

The U.S. Energy Department on Nov. 25 announced $30 million in funding to speed up the interconnection process for new energy generation through the introduction and implementation of artificial intelligence methods. The Artificial Intelligence for Interconnection, or AI4IX, program will enhance collaboration between software programmers, energy project developers, and grid operators to improve and modernize the application process and lessen the time required to extensively examine, approve and commission new generation interconnections across the U.S.

AI provides an energy solution which has the capability of decluttering an extensive interconnection backlog. As it stands, interconnection processes are slow and not evolving with the requirements of the grid. New generation interconnections at this moment could take up to seven years and the department reports that active, yet unconnected capacity is double the amount of existing connected generation.

The current interconnection application is usually reviewed manually and many applications are insufficiently filled or incomplete, as a result correcting these applications leads to a significant time lag and development delays. Some organizations have indicated that over 90 percent of applications they receive are deficient and making corrections is a key reason for long analysis and development delays.

Under the AI4IX initiative, funded by  the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, projects will work to apply existing AI algorithms to the interconnection application process to swiftly identify incomplete applications and promptly notify applicants for resolution. The utilization of AI will improve the speed and enhance the precision in identifying documentation issues and providing specific reasons to allow timely resolutions or corrections that can improve over time.

Applications for the first round of AI4IX program funding are due by Jan. 10, 2025.