Coalition to Save Braemar to Hold Rally Opposing Vint Hill Substation Expansion

Residents of Bristow and Nokesville, Virginia, organized under the 'Save Braemar Coalition,' are actively opposing Dominion Energy's plan to expand the Vint Hill Substation in Prince William County. The proposed expansion involves transforming the existing facility into a gas-insulated electrical substation (GIS) that would utilize sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), a potent greenhouse gas. The community's opposition stems from concerns over the environmental and health risks associated with SF6, the perceived 'aggressive clustering' of utility infrastructure to serve nearby data centers, potential increases in utility bills, and the aesthetic impact of new power lines. Coalition members, including Mindy Diepenbrock, demand a formal sound study, transparency from Dominion Energy regarding transmission line plans, and a state-level examination into the cumulative impact of these projects on the local environment and quality of life. The expansion is intended to upgrade infrastructure to connect existing 500 kV power lines, allowing more energy flow to meet the rising demand primarily from data centers in the region. Dominion Energy has submitted an application for a Special Use Permit (SUP) to Prince William County, with a hearing now scheduled for June 23 after being previously deferred. The Coalition is calling on the Board of County Supervisors to deny this permit. A rally was scheduled for May 4 in Bristow, preceding a private Braemar HOA meeting where Dominion Energy representatives were set to present information. Virginia State Senator Danica A. Roem and Del. Elizabeth Guzman, who previously supported residents against a transmission line project, are expected to attend the rally. Dominion Energy maintains that GIS technology is safe, tested, effective, and allows for minimal land use expansion, stating the project is necessary to meet growing energy demands and federal reliability mandates.