Constellation and GridBeyond launch AI-powered demand response program in PJM
A new AI-enabled demand response (DR) initiative from Constellation and GridBeyond aims to help large energy users in the PJM market cut costs, improve energy efficiency, and reduce grid stress — all without adding new power plants.
The program, announced July 31, combines Constellation’s reach as the nation’s largest clean energy provider with GridBeyond’s advanced AI analytics platform. The goal is to identify and optimize short-duration curtailments during periods of peak demand — like sweltering July afternoons — when electricity prices spike and grid capacity is strained.
“Demand response is a better, cheaper, and faster way to meet America’s growing energy needs,” said Constellation CEO Joe Dominguez. “As the energy provider for 75% of America’s Fortune 100 companies, we’re well positioned to scale this new and improved DR program.”
AI brings new life to demand response
DR programs have historically been used to improve grid reliability and lower electricity costs, but interest waned in recent years due to low power prices and lackluster returns. That may be changing. Recent research from Duke University shows that if large users cut electricity use by just 0.25% for a few hours per year, the U.S. could meet 76 GW of new demand without building a single new power plant.
GridBeyond’s AI platform creates a digital twin of customer operations, using real-time grid data and predictive analytics to determine when and where to reduce load. The platform can isolate specific loads at the sub-meter level, allowing customers to curtail operations with precision and minimize disruption.
The collaboration is launching just as PJM — the largest grid operator in the country — released the results of its most recent capacity auction, which saw nearly 2,700 MW of new generation added, but no growth in DR participation. Constellation and GridBeyond aim to reverse that trend with a smarter, more attractive DR product that unlocks new revenue streams for energy users and improves system flexibility.
“Our partnership will deliver cost savings and sustainability benefits that empower businesses to take control of their energy usage,” said GridBeyond CEO Michael Phelan.
The new DR solution complements Constellation’s broader strategy to meet growing electricity demand through nuclear generation, plant reactivation, and advanced energy management offerings — all without building unnecessary new fossil fuel resources.
