SCC orders data centers to pay full cost of dedicated grid upgrades after Spanberger push

Virginia’s State Corporation Commission ordered that new large-load data centers pay for transmission infrastructure built exclusively for them, instead of spreading those facility-specific costs across all ratepayers. The ruling in a utility rate case says big tech demand drives dedicated lines and substations. Dominion Energy must submit a revised cost-allocation proposal within 90 days.

Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger said she will intervene in the proposed $67 billion Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy merger, citing questions about impacts on Virginia jobs, communities, and energy affordability. The Virginia SCC has 180 days to review. Separately, Virginia’s treasury returned a record $159 million in unclaimed property. Trump issued executive orders limiting birthright citizenship.

Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger said she will seek intervenor status in the State Corporation Commission review of Dominion Energy’s proposed $67B sale to NextEra Energy. She wants conditions on customer electric bills, Virginia jobs and clean energy, and says the SCC still decides approval. The all-stock deal would give NextEra 74.5% and Dominion 25.5%, with $2.25B in bill credits.

Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger says she will formally intervene in the State Corporation Commission’s review of Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy’s proposed $67 billion merger. The SCC has until Jan. 15 to rule, with hearings in November. Spanberger cites priorities including lower electric bills, job protections, and accelerated clean power; Dominion says the deal includes $1.78 billion in bill credits.

Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger formally intervened in Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy’s proposed $67 billion merger, saying she wants answers on impacts for Virginia and ratepayers before the State Corporation Commission acts. She set non-negotiables on affordability, job protection, and continued clean energy. Dominion and NextEra said they welcome her participation.

Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger will formally intervene in the Virginia State Corporation Commission review of Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy’s proposed $67 billion merger, citing concerns about energy affordability and meeting Virginia’s growing needs. Dominion says the SCC is the proper venue. Lawmakers seek more review time via possible legislation.