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ARTICLE · 30 OCTOBER 2026

BESS Interconnection: Managing Grid, Cost, And Schedule Risk

Scarinci Hollenbeck LLC
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BESS interconnection presents growing challenges for battery energy storage developers as utilities, permitting authorities, and grid operators impose requirements that can significantly affect project schedules and costs. Understanding how to navigate interconnection queues, coordinate approvals, allocate risk in contracts, and protect against third-party delays is essential for developers, property owners, and contractors seeking to bring projects online successfully.

United StatesReal Estate and Construction
Nicholas Wall
Nicholas Wall

For battery energy storage system (BESS) developers, securing equipment and site control is only part of the development equation. A project must also connect to the electric grid, and increasingly, BESS interconnection is one of the biggest sources of schedule, cost, and contractual risk.

Key Takeaways

  • Start interconnection diligence early. Grid availability and required upgrades can materially affect both project cost and schedule.
  • Coordinate permitting and interconnection. A fast equipment delivery date does not guarantee a fast commercial operation date.
  • Pressure-test customer schedules. Measure a requested six-month deployment against utility, permitting, construction, and commissioning requirements before it becomes contractual.

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The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

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