Report: Proposed transmission line cost more than doubles

A report by the Institute for Energy Economics & Financial Analysis (IEEFA) indicates that NextEra Energy's estimated capital cost for the Mid-Atlantic Resiliency Link (MARL) transmission line has soared from $441 million to $960 million. This significant increase for the project, which aims to cross Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Western Maryland, and Virginia to connect with data centers in Northern Virginia, is expected to be borne by ratepayers across the PJM region, with West Virginia customers alone facing $572 million in charges. NextEra Energy Transmission MidAtlantic has defended the project, stating that the costs are part of a detailed review process and that MARL will bolster electric reliability in Maryland and West Virginia, create jobs, and generate long-term tax revenue. The company claims the average rate increase for West Virginia residential customers would be less than a dollar per month. However, the proposed line faces substantial opposition from residents and political figures in West Virginia and Maryland. Tony Campbell, President of West Virginians Against Transmission Injustice, condemned the cost doubling, arguing that West Virginians would pay for a project offering no in-state benefits. Maryland Senator Mike McKay voiced concerns about the financial burden on ratepayers in Garrett and Allegany counties, advocating for policies promoting local power generation. West Virginia Delegate Gary Howell highlighted constituent opposition in Mineral County due to property, environmental impacts, and community character concerns, emphasizing the need for a thorough review process. Former Maryland Senator John Bambacus criticized MARL as an