Decision by State Corporation Commission (SCC) to grant Dominion Energy a certificate for the Chesterfield gas-fired peaker plant is a step backward
RICHMOND, VA – The State Corporation Commission has approved Dominion Energy’s proposed Chesterfield peaker plant without conditions, advancing a project that will increase long-term costs for Virginia customers despite readily available, lower-cost alternatives that strengthen grid reliability.
“Virginians need low-cost energy, but this approval allows Dominion to move forward with one of the most expensive options on the table,” said Shawn Kelly, Regulatory Director at Advanced Energy United. “Utilities across the country are using proven tools like battery storage, demand flexibility, and modern grid management to meet peak needs at lower cost. This approval embraces none of these lower cost options.”
The Chesterfield project requires major upfront capital investment and decades of fuel and maintenance spending. Analyses presented in the proceeding showed that advanced energy technologies—already being deployed at scale in other states—can deliver peak capacity more affordably, reduce exposure to price volatility, and make better use of existing grid infrastructure.
“Approving a high-cost resource without fully evaluating commercially available alternatives shifts unnecessary risk onto ratepayers,” added Kelly. “Virginia needs planning decisions that maximize existing grid capacity, accelerate lower-cost technologies, and keep customer bills in check.”
Advanced Energy United, the national business association representing many of the leading solar, wind, storage, demand and distributed energy companies, called on the SCC in expert testimony to reject plans to build the new, expensive gas plant.