Practical utility solutions to manage data center growth

Join us for an interactive workshop designed for utility planners, demand-side management leaders, and program design and delivery experts navigating these challenges. We’ll explore practical, data-driven strategies to manage load, coordinate with developers, and create meaningful value for customers and communities.

Attendees will gain actionable insights into:

• Evolving DSM programs to extract value from data center participation.
• Strengthening grid reliability and flexibility.
• Delivering lasting benefits for both customers and communities.

Agenda

Wednesday, April 15

2:00 PM   Meet at ICF headquarters to board shuttle for Sabey Data Center tour

2:30 PM   Sabey Data Center tour begins *Note: Please bring a government-issued ID and wear closed-toe shoes.

4:00 PM   Tour concludes and shuttle departs back to ICF headquarters 

6:00 PM    Welcome dinner - Corsica Wine Bar

Thursday, April 16

8:30 AM     Breakfast

9:00 AM     Navigating data center market trends

Learn how current market and policy trends are shaping data center growth. This session will explore demand projections, evolving regulations, and electrification impacts, and how these factors affect utility planning, developer coordination, and community outcomes. Attendees will hear actionable approaches for guiding investments, coordinating siting with developers, and designing DSM programs in this evolving landscape.

9:45 AM   Unlocking the power of data center load flexibility

This session explores how load flexibility—through demand response, operational flexibility, and behind-the-meter resources—could help power systems accommodate large new loads while generation development catches up. We’ll share insights from our PJM modeling study, and you’ll hear a utility perspective on how these strategies translate into real-world programs and partnerships with large customers.

10:15 AM   Break

10:30 AM   Unlocking the power of data center load flexibility (Continued)

11:00 AM   Building community trust for data center siting and expansion

11:45 AM   Lunch

12:45 PM   Collaborative DSM design: Aligning utilities, planners, and developers for grid solutions

With the right approach, utilities can do more than simply involve data centers in their energy initiatives; they can collaborate with these facilities as key partners to help meet and address grid requirements. In this session, we’ll reveal strategies and best practices for utilities to effectively engage data center operators, overcome common barriers, and design programs that deliver measurable benefits. We'll cover proven methods for building successful collaborations and driving energy savings in one of the most critical sectors of our digital economy.

1:30 PM     Closing