Utilities must guarantee that requested capacity is available 24/7/365. If a data center requests 100 MW, the utility must be confident that the grid can deliver all 100 MW at all times, even if constraints occur only 1% of the year. Current planning models leave no room for hybrid solutions, so utilities often must say “not until we upgrade.”

A flexible connection allows a data center to combine grid power with on-site or co-located generation and storage. This hybrid approach lets the site connect sooner by using local power when the grid is constrained, while still ramping to full grid supply once the utility has added the necessary capacity.

Not usually. Most flexible connections rely on on-site or co-located generation and energy storage to reduce grid demand, rather than limiting server activity. While some hyperscalers have tools to shift or curtail compute, most developers prefer to maintain full service and use local resources to meet grid constraints when needed.

Utilities require a clear operating plan, including a series of escalating steps to protect the grid. This includes a final fail-safe, often a hardware-based shutoff. It is rarely used but always available as a "big red button" so that operators can maintain safety and reliability if other measures fail.

Camus supports both planning and operation of flexible connections. We translate grid data and models into safe, site-specific operating limits and help determine when and how much local generation or storage is needed. Our software supports long-term planning studies and real-time, day-ahead operations for utility teams and developers.

Yes. Around a dozen U.S. utilities, including PG&E, SCE, and ComEd, are actively offering or piloting flexible interconnection programs. Internationally, similar models are already standard. The big shift now is applying this approach to data centers and other large, fast-growing loads.

For data center developers, flexibility enables faster grid connections and avoids multi-year delays. For utilities, it allows them to say yes to new projects without immediately building expensive infrastructure. Both sides benefit from lower costs, smarter capacity use, and a more adaptable grid.