Lt. Gov. Hashmi Hits the Road to Hear from Virginians on Dominion-NextEra Merger
Lt. Gov. Ghazala Hashmi has launched a statewide listening tour to engage Virginians on the proposed $67 billion merger between Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy, which is currently under review by the State Corporation Commission. Governor Abigail Spanberger has formally intervened in the case, and state lawmakers are pushing to extend the review period due to the merger's significant implications for ratepayers and the state's energy future.
Virginia's Lt. Governor Ghazala Hashmi has announced a statewide listening tour to engage with constituents regarding the proposed $67 billion merger between Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy. The tour, set to begin in September with stops in Loudoun, Hampton Roads, Richmond, Charlottesville, and Roanoke, aims to educate the public on the case before the State Corporation Commission (SCC) and facilitate testimony. Hashmi previously requested more clarity from the utilities on the merger's impact on Virginia ratepayers, stating that such a significant acquisition demands thorough and transparent review.
Governor Abigail Spanberger took an unprecedented step by formally requesting to intervene in the SCC case, seeking the ability to question witnesses, file evidence, and review sensitive information. A recent poll indicated that 76% of Virginians in certain regions anticipate rate increases from the merger. Additionally, a bipartisan group of lawmakers is urging Governor Spanberger to call a special legislative session to pass a measure extending the SCC's standard six-month review period, which many state leaders believe is insufficient for such a complex case. The public is invited to participate in the listening tour and learn how to contribute to the SCC's review process.