Increasing energy demand in Loudoun — the data center capital of the world — requires extensive new infrastructure buildout. To meet the load demand, fueled principally by data centers, Dominion Energy has initiated several new/expanded major transmission line projects, including the Morrisville-Wishing Star Electric Transmission Project. Over the last month, Dominion has held four county-based open houses to present options for the Morrisville-Wishing Star route to community members.
Transmission
The Piedmont Environmental Council has some experience dealing with Dominion and transmission line proposals through our region. In 2006 and 2008, utilities proposed two unnecessary high-voltage transmission lines that would connect to the oldest and dirtiest coal-fired generation in the United States. Learn more about the TrAIL line (approved and built) and the PATH line (turned down). More recently, a series of projects has been proposed, each with its own set of details and impacts.
Loudoun Development Tracker
In an effort to track development applications that could impact important natural, cultural and historic resources, as well as the quality of life for Loudoun residents, PEC has created a shared spreadsheet that anyone can view.
Transmission Line Mega Project Approval Process Accelerated Without Complete Review and Mitigation of Serious Impacts
This month, Dominion is holding three community meetings on the Morrisville-Wishing Star 500kV and 230kV electric transmission lines through Fauquier, Prince William and Loudoun counties.
Upcoming Dominion Community Meetings About Proposed Transmission Line
In May, Dominion will hold community meetings on one of its projects — the Morrisville-Wishing Star 500kV and 230kV electric transmission lines through Fauquier, Prince William and Loudoun counties.
Virginia’s Digital and Energy Future is in the Hands of the SCC
I’m writing to you today to tell you about a critical opportunity to weigh in on fair energy prices and a sustainable future for Virginia.
March 18: Loudoun Board to Vote on Proposed Changes to Regulate Data Center Development
Next Tuesday, Mar. 18, the Loudoun Board of Supervisors plans a major vote on its proposed Phase One amendments to the comprehensive plan and zoning ordinance to better manage data center development in the county.
2024 Highlights: By the Numbers
PEC’s dedicated staff work relentlessly to advance land conservation, sound land use planning, the protection of natural resources and better climate and energy policy.
Dominion Energy Integrated Resource Plan projects historic rate increases for Virginia ratepayers while subsidizing the world’s wealthiest companies
The Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) filed by Dominion
Energy with the Virginia State Corporation Commission (“SCC”) this week projects a more than 100
percent increase in electricity usage in the next 15 years, primarily driven by the explosive and
uncontrolled growth of data centers.
Call for State Action on Data Centers Gets Louder
During the 2024 General Assembly session, Virginia legislators failed to take action to address the concerns raised by residents and environmental groups about the proliferation of data centers.
Update on Data Center Development and Transmission Lines in Fauquier
Fauquier County is under incredible pressure from energy infrastructure facilities to serve data center growth in Northern Virginia and from data center development projects within its own borders. Here is information about the proposed data center developments, an update on the new transmission line threat and PEC’s recommendation going forward.