NEWS: Virginia’s data center boom tests clean energy law

Dominion wants to build a 944-MW gas “reliability center” in Virginia, arguing it’s the only way to keep the lights on as demand soars. (Canary Media)

  • Yes, but: State law bars new fossil plants unless they’re proven more cost-effective than clean options and requires Dominion to be carbon-free by 2045.

  • Regulators and outside experts say Dominion’s case is weak—its cold snap analysis was unconvincing and it largely ignored batteries, efficiency, and demand flexibility. 

  • Still, staff didn’t outright oppose approval, warning that, without new resources, the utility could be left short and reliant on the volatile spot market.

1
1 reply