2027 Event Agenda

This Utility University course presents a collaborative case study developed by a team of engineers at K&A Engineering Consulting in coordination with utility engineers and industry engineers. The study was conducted to gain practical experience and deeper technical understanding of the challenges and potential solutions associated with integrating large-scale hyperscale data center loads with co-located behind-the-meter generation resources under constrained transmission and interconnection conditions.

The rapid growth of AI-driven hyperscale data centers has created significant challenges for utilities and system operators, particularly in the areas of interconnection queue delays, transmission congestion, and reliable integration of very large loads. In response, this case study examines a 500 MW co-located generation architecture designed to support fast-track data center deployment while addressing key grid reliability and operational constraints.

The objective of this course is to share the engineering experience and lessons learned from developing, modeling, and analyzing this type of system with a broader audience of utility planners, system operators, consultants, developers, and engineers. The study integrates steady-state, time-series, and dynamic analysis techniques, including PSS®E-based power flow and operational studies and PSCAD-based electromagnetic transient (EMT) simulations, to evaluate system performance under a range of operating conditions.

The course explores key technical areas including system architecture development, coordinated dispatch of gas generation, solar PV, and battery energy storage systems, voltage and thermal constraint management, and operational strategies for grid-connected and islanded modes. It also addresses modeling considerations, including the representation of hybrid resources, load behavior of hyperscale data centers, and consistency between RMS and EMT simulation platforms.

In addition, the course highlights control strategies for behind-the-meter systems, including islanding, resynchronization, and fast dynamic response, as well as their impact on grid stability and interconnection requirements. Economic and planning implications, such as congestion mitigation, coincident peak reduction, and transmission deferral potential, are also discussed from a utility perspective.

By presenting this work as a practical engineering case study, the course aims to provide attendees with actionable insights, modeling approaches, and lessons learned that can be applied to real-world large-load interconnection projects. The goal is to support broader industry understanding of how co-located generation and advanced modeling techniques can be used to address emerging challenges in integrating hyperscale data centers into the modern electric grid.