FERC has approved an SPP tariff change that allows interconnection customers without a pending request to ask for interim service when the study cluster’s window is closed (ER25-2476). 

In its Aug. 7 letter order, the commission found that SPP’s proposal would meet the agency’s independent entity variation standard, used to evaluate deviations from the pro forma large generator interconnection procedures and agreements established under FERC Order 845. The standard is designed to allow IC customers to obtain interim service sooner than otherwise would be possible.  

FERC said the proposed tariff revisions “will provide additional flexibility” for interconnection customers by allowing them to submit requests that would enable a timelier IC service. 

“Absent SPP’s proposed tariff revisions, interconnection customers without a pending interconnection request would not be able to request interim interconnection service until the next [study] cluster window, which could occur as late as April 1, 2026, potentially delaying the connection of needed generation,” the commission said. 

The tariff revision also maintains existing financial and study requirements for an interim IC, FERC said. It noted the proposal includes limits such as requiring customers to submit a request in the next open study cluster window or have their interim GIA terminated, ensuring that a customer can’t have interim service indefinitely. 

SPP submitted its proposal in June, saying that revisions to its definitive integration system impact study (DISIS) process will allow customers to ask for interim IC service on the condition it submits requests to the DISIS queue during the next open cluster window. Customers with pending requests also will be required to maintain that request for its interim service to remain valid. 

The order was effective Aug. 10.