Virginia approves first gas plant since clean economy act despite environmental opposition

Virginia’s State Corporation Commission has given the green light to Dominion Energy’s controversial $1.47 billion natural gas plant in Chesterfield County, marking the first new gas facility approved since the state passed its landmark Clean Economy Act. The Chesterfield Energy Reliability Center (CERC) represents a significant step backward for Virginia’s clean energy transition, according to environmental advocates.

Dominion Energy justified the massive investment by framing the facility as essential for grid reliability amid growing energy demands across the state. The utility company positioned the plant as a “peaker” facility, designed to provide backup power during periods of high electricity demand. However, the approval has sparked fierce opposition from local residents and clean energy groups who argue the project contradicts Virginia’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

The project still faces another regulatory hurdle, as the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality must evaluate and approve an air permit before construction can begin. This review will assess the plant’s potential environmental impact and air pollution contributions in a state that has committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions.

The approval highlights the ongoing tension between energy reliability concerns and climate commitments. While Dominion Energy emphasizes the need for dependable power sources, critics argue that investments in renewable energy storage and efficiency improvements would better serve both reliability and environmental goals. The decision will likely intensify debates about Virginia’s energy future as the state attempts to balance its clean economy aspirations with traditional utility industry interests.