Virginia Commission Orders Dominion to Develop Data Center Cost Plan
Virginia's State Corporation Commission has ordered Dominion Energy to propose changes by this fall that would shift more transmission infrastructure costs to data centers and other large electricity users. This decision is viewed by Governor Abigail Spanberger as a victory for ratepayers, ensuring data centers pay the full cost of the grid infrastructure they require, particularly in Northern Virginia.
The Virginia State Corporation Commission has issued a final order directing Dominion Energy to develop a plan to reallocate transmission infrastructure costs. This directive, issued on July 31 as part of Dominion's annual Rider T1 transmission cost recovery case, mandates the utility to file amendments to its line-extension policy within 90 days. Additionally, Dominion must provide an updated broader approach for assigning costs for new grid infrastructure, when driven by large-load customers, within 120 days.
Governor Abigail Spanberger lauded the decision, proclaiming it a victory for ratepayers. She underscored that the ruling ensures data centers bear the full financial burden of the transmission infrastructure necessitated by their development. This issue holds particular significance in Northern Virginia, home to a high concentration of data centers, due to the potential ramifications on residential electricity bills.