Energy Matters

PEC is working to support an energy system that is smarter, more efficient and better accounts for the negative externalities arising from the choices we make about energy consumption, generation, transmission and distribution.

We are advocating for a more distributed system that is less reliant on distant generating sources and incorporates a mix of local renewable power — customer owned, community based and utility scale. Recognizing Virginia is in the early stages of its energy transition, we believe now is the time to reimagine and rebuild our energy system in a way that is just and fair to all residents and ratepayers.

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The Environmental Footprint of the Digital Age

The Environmental Footprint of the Digital Age

Virginia is subsidizing billions of dollars in data center development on the backs of its ratepayers, without a full understanding of the long-term ramifications …
One Approved, Another on the Horizon

One Approved, Another on the Horizon

Approval of Copper Ridge; Cielo data center campus proposed just east of Town …
IRP Comment Letter first page

PEC Responds to Dominion Energy’s Proposed 2023 Integrated Resource Plan

In September, The Piedmont Environmental Council’s Director of Land Use Julie Bolthouse submitted public comment on Dominion Energy’s proposed Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) as part of case number PUR-2023-00066 before the Virginia State Corporation Commission …
Copper Ridge Data Center Campus Heads to Town Council

Copper Ridge Data Center Campus Heads to Town Council

On Tuesday, Aug. 15, the Planning Commission vote on Copper Ridge was tied 2-2, with one of the commissioners having recused himself. The data center campus rezoning now heads to the Town Council on Sept …
Expanding Access to Community Solar

Expanding Access to Community Solar

Community solar is an affordable renewable energy option for residents who cannot secure rooftop solar due to logistical constraints …
Powering Progress Through Rooftop Solar

Powering Progress Through Rooftop Solar

Distributed rooftop solar has many benefits as we build out the clean energy needed to reach the 100% zero-carbon-emissions standard laid out in Virginia’s Clean Economy Act (VCEA) …
Deploying Utility-Scale Solar Responsibly

Deploying Utility-Scale Solar Responsibly

Utility-scale solar facilities are a key component of Virginia’s transition to a clean energy future. However, the Commonwealth must ensure that impacts on Virginia’s farms, forests, and streams are minimized …
Mitigating Data Center Development's Impacts

Mitigating Data Center Development’s Impacts

Virginia is home to the largest concentration of data centers in the world, widely cited as hosting 70% of global internet traffic. This massive industry is continuing to grow very fast, requiring huge amounts of energy, …
suburban home with solar panels

Why I Got Solar for My Home

Creating your own energy on-site and using it, learning more about how electricity works and inspiring your neighbors makes the journey engaging and communal …