PJM’s Frequency Regulation Update: What Do the Changes Mean for Large Energy Users?

Today, PJM, North America’s largest grid operator covering DC and 13 states across the Mid-Atlantic and Midwest, updated the design of Frequency Regulation. Frequency Regulation is part of PJM’s ancillary services to maintain a precise balance between electricity generation and consumption on the grid’s transmission system. ​

Specifically, PJM’s Frequency Regulation program is available 24/7/365, and customers are rewarded for their ability to perform quickly and keep the grid steady at 60 hertz. When demand suddenly spikes or generation drops, PJM calls on CPower’s customers with flexible resources like batteries or quick-responding generators to respond quickly and restore balance. You can think of Frequency Regulation like a car’s shock absorber, smoothing out bumps on the electric grid. Because it requires fast response and precision, Frequency Regulation is one of the highest-value grid services available to energy users who can provide it.

What’s Changing with Frequency Regulation

As of Oct. 1, 2025, PJM is rolling out Phase One of its Frequency Regulation changes to streamline dispatch and reduce complexity for participants, shifting from two signals (RegA and RegD) to one merged bidirectional signal. Frequency Regulation will also shift from hourly to 30-minute offer intervals.

Looking ahead to Oct. 1, 2026, PJM will make further changes to the Frequency Regulation program with the implementation of one signal and two products: RegUp and RegDown. CPower will keep our customers informed as we get closer.

Turning Flexibility into Profit

PJM’s Frequency Regulation changes mean that the energy assets you already own, like batteries and quick-responding generators, can generate revenue with less operational complexity. The new rules streamline how resources are dispatched and put a premium on fast, accurate response, which plays directly to the strengths of a battery and other flexible technologies. It’s also a chance to turn grid support into more reliable revenue without significant changes to your operations.

Complexity Simplified with CPower’s EnerWise

CPower has updated its EnerWise platform to align with the latest changes from PJM, helping you maintain compliance and supporting your continued participation and success in PJM’s Frequency Regulation program. EnerWise helps you increase returns without any major changes to your operations or constraints. Our role is to make market participation easier, so you can focus on your core business while your assets generate value.

PJM’s Frequency Regulation updates are part of a broader trend: flexibility is becoming central to the future of the grid. As demand patterns shift, resources that can respond quickly will be increasingly valuable.

If you’re a DER project developer or a large energy user wanting to learn more about Frequency Regulation or other programs in PJM, please contact us.