NEWS: Oklo’s 750-MW project won’t make it back into PJM’s interconnection process, FERC said.

The context: PJM withdrew the next-gen nuclear developer’s project due to several “deficiencies.” In response, Oklo requested that FERC weigh in. 

FERC’s decision: “Oklo failed to demonstrate a stable system…which is sufficient to justify PJM’s rejection of Oklo’s application,” FERC wrote. But, the agency cautioned that, in order to ensure there are enough resources to meet growing demand in the region, “it is critical that PJM collaborate with project developers before, during, and after the interconnection application process.” 

Still: Oklo can re-submit in PJM’s next study cycle, or apply through PJM’s Expedited Interconnection Track process (open until Dec. 31, 2027).

One takeaway? “I think it illustrates something much bigger about new nuclear: Designing a reactor and developing a power project are very different businesses,” Elemental co-founder David Faherty wrote on X.