8legs: Virginia state corporation commission

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'Immense stress' on power grid as Virginia refuses data center regulation

Virginia lawmakers attempted to grant the State Corporation Commission authority to review high-load projects over 25 megawatts for grid impact.
The proposals would add a state-level check while not removing local review of projects, according to supporters.
HB 155 and SB 619 stalled in committee as lawmakers weighed grid reliability against growth demands.
Utility Dominion Energy cautioned that state oversight could interfere with local siting decisions and the interconnection queue.
Supporters say data centers have boosted local tax revenue, especially in Loudoun County.
Lawmakers aim to revive the measures in the next session after SCC feedback on implementation.
The debate centers on balancing data center growth with electricity grid reliability.
The bills would require environmental, health impact reviews beyond local permitting.
Some lawmakers highlighted the industry's role as a significant tax revenue source for localities.
Proponents argued for a more mature growth strategy to prevent future grid issues.
The bills sought to ensure projects comply with clean energy investments and demand response programs.

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