(The Center Square) – As the country braces for a surge in electricity demand driven by large energy users like data centers, two questions lie at the center of the debate over the grid’s future: can it remain reliable, and who will pay for it?

Utility experts warn that rising load forecasts are colliding with projected supply shortfalls. And, while PJM works to finalize new rules for connecting large load customers to the grid, some state officials, consumer advocates, and industry groups are zeroing in on the affordability piece of the puzzle.