Phase 2A: Large Load Integration | BYOG Process

Important Dates & Materials

Feb. 17 | Stakeholder update (below) and materials posted:

Feb. 17 | Stakeholder Update

We held a kick-off session for the Phase 2A Large Load Working Group on Nov. 28. At their request, we also hosted a Q&A session with the AESO Chief Engineer on Dec. 10 to ensure common understanding of the methodology, inputs and assumptions underpinning the Phase I Interim Interconnection Limit (refer to slides 21-30 of the Phase I Large Load Integration Information Session presentation).

Between Dec. 4 and 17, we hosted one-on-one meetings with each LLWG-2A member to gather detailed input on connection process updates to accommodate large loads that (i) self-supply their own power on-site; (ii) enable net new generation on the transmission system; or (iii) require MW allocations. We provided a straw dog model outlining a sample connection process to support additional discussions. A 'What We Heard' summary has been prepared and provided to reflect common themes from the LLWG-2A individual meetings. Several design and implementation questions emerged, prompting an additional round of group meetings this month.

We'll provide another update and next steps in March.

Purpose

The AESO rolled out Phase I of the Large Load Integration Program on June 4, 2025. Phase I included a 1,200 MW interim large load connection limit and a process for allocating that load among qualified project developers.

Phase II of the Large Load Integration Program is exploring the changes necessary to create the long-term framework for large loads (including data centres) across the AESO’s mandate, including connections, planning, operations, markets, tariff and reliability.

We continue to evolve the design of Phase II engagement, which requires careful planning and coordination. To help shape its scope and direction, we sought stakeholder input on:

  • key questions and related topics to address; and
  • structure and timing, considering the interdependencies with other engagements.

Important Dates & Materials

Feb. 17 | Stakeholder update (below) and materials posted:

Feb. 17 | Stakeholder Update

We held a kick-off session for the Phase 2A Large Load Working Group on Nov. 28. At their request, we also hosted a Q&A session with the AESO Chief Engineer on Dec. 10 to ensure common understanding of the methodology, inputs and assumptions underpinning the Phase I Interim Interconnection Limit (refer to slides 21-30 of the Phase I Large Load Integration Information Session presentation).

Between Dec. 4 and 17, we hosted one-on-one meetings with each LLWG-2A member to gather detailed input on connection process updates to accommodate large loads that (i) self-supply their own power on-site; (ii) enable net new generation on the transmission system; or (iii) require MW allocations. We provided a straw dog model outlining a sample connection process to support additional discussions. A 'What We Heard' summary has been prepared and provided to reflect common themes from the LLWG-2A individual meetings. Several design and implementation questions emerged, prompting an additional round of group meetings this month.

We'll provide another update and next steps in March.

Purpose

The AESO rolled out Phase I of the Large Load Integration Program on June 4, 2025. Phase I included a 1,200 MW interim large load connection limit and a process for allocating that load among qualified project developers.

Phase II of the Large Load Integration Program is exploring the changes necessary to create the long-term framework for large loads (including data centres) across the AESO’s mandate, including connections, planning, operations, markets, tariff and reliability.

We continue to evolve the design of Phase II engagement, which requires careful planning and coordination. To help shape its scope and direction, we sought stakeholder input on:

  • key questions and related topics to address; and
  • structure and timing, considering the interdependencies with other engagements.

  • Phase 2A: Pre-Engagement

    November 26, 2025 | Stakeholder Update

    The following organizations will participate in the Phase 2 Working Group, kicking off later this week.

    • Beacon AI Centers
    • Capital Power Corporation
    • Dow Chemical Canada
    • eStruxture
    • Imperial Oil
    • IREN Ltd
    • KALiNA Distributed Power
    • Kineticor Asset Management LP
    • TransAlta Corp.

    Thank you to everyone who applied to take part.

    November 5, 2025 | Stakeholder Update

    The AESO is launching the Large Load Working Group (“LLWG-2A”), a targeted industry engagement to explore and develop Phase 2A solutions for “bring your own generation” (BYOG) and MW allocations.

    The LLWG-2A will collaborate with the AESO to develop a proposal to update the connection process, ensuring it recognizes and accommodates large loads that: (i) self-supply their own power on-site; (ii) enable net new generation on the transmission system; or (ii) require MW allocations. This effort aims to improve transparency and speed-to-market for projects that support Alberta’s reliability and competitiveness.

    The LLWG-2A will follow a structured approach to develop the proposal:

    • Identify key challenges in the current connection process
    • Understand best practices and regulatory considerations
    • Contribute to the design and validation of a proposal for BYOG and MW allocations
    • Deliver a final proposal for broader industry consultation in 2026

    To ensure informed and balanced input, we are targeting representation from the following groups:

    • Data centre developers/end use customers (4 - 6 members)
    • Generators (1 - 3 members)
    • Industrial load customers (1 - 3 members)

    LLWG-2A Selection

    • Application Deadline: November 13, 2025
    • Notification to Selected Members: November 20, 2025

    Proposal Development

    • Preliminary Kick-off Meeting (virtual): November 28, 2025
    • 1:1 meetings with AESO: Week of December 1 and December 8
    • Joint LLWG-2A meetings: as needed

    Broader Industry Engagement

    • Proposal Release, Engagement Sessions, and Written Comment Period: January-February 2026 (ETA)

    For additional information, review the Phase 2A Working Group Supplemental Information and Terms of Reference. All interested stakeholders can apply to participate in the working group via the survey below.

Page last updated: 17 Feb 2026, 04:57 PM