Friday, December 28, 2007

The 500-kV Transmission Line


The Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) held local hearings at four locations in Northern Virginia this past to take testimony on the applications submitted by Dominion Power and TrAILCo for a new transmission line that would run through Northern Virginia. Almost 300 local residents spoke at the hearings, 90% in opposition.

Opponents offered a variety of arguments against the proposal. They questioned the data and analyses on the need for power presented by the line’s proponents and raised questions about electricity reliability problems cited in the applications. Many opponents requested that an independent review be performed. Others focused on reducing electrical loads as an alternative. Some concentrated on the need for an environmental assessment. While many spoke about the personal impact of the power line on their homes, property and way of life.

There is no question that citizen testimony has had an impact on the regulatory process. There will be another public hearing in Richmond on January 14, 2008. The formal hearing is February 25, 2008, again in Richmond.

For more details take a look at the information provided by Piedmont Environmental Council or Dominion.

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