Dominion Energy, Virginia’s largest utility company, has recently received approval from state regulators to construct a liquified natural gas (LNG) storage facility for two of its gas-fired power stations in the Southside region of the state. This approval comes despite opposition from environmental groups advocating for more renewable energy sources.
The State Corporation Commission granted Dominion Energy approval to build a 25-million gallon LNG storage facility capable of storing up to 2 billion cubic feet of gas. This facility will serve the utility’s Brunswick and Greensville power stations, named after the counties they are located in. These power stations utilize combined cycle turbines that burn gas and capture steam to generate electricity.
Jeffirey G. Miscikowski, Dominion Energy’s vice president of project construction, emphasized the necessity of the project in ensuring a readily available, safe, and reliable fuel source for the power stations during natural disasters, extreme weather events, or supply disruptions. Despite concerns raised by environmental groups like the Southern Environmental Law Center regarding additional fuel costs, Dominion Energy highlighted the importance of the project for maintaining grid reliability.
State Corporation Commission Approval
The approval from the State Corporation Commission was based on Dominion Energy’s argument for the need of the project, particularly in light of past severe weather events like Winter Storm Elliot in 2022. This storm caused gas production wells to freeze, leading to constraints in fuel delivery to natural gas-fired power plants. The commission recognized the increasing severity and frequency of extreme weather events and approved the project to enhance reliability during such events.
Reports from regional grid operators and energy regulatory bodies underscored the importance of preparing for severe weather events due to climate change. The Union of Concerned Scientists highlighted the risk of power plant failures during cold snaps, emphasizing the need for reliable fuel sources to maintain electricity generation.
Environmental Impact and Community Concerns
The construction of the LNG storage facility is expected to produce approximately 68,919 tons of carbon dioxide-equivalent emissions, contributing to the stations’ overall carbon footprint. Environmental justice analyses revealed that communities within a one-mile radius of the project are predominantly communities of color, raising concerns about potential adverse impacts on vulnerable populations.
Despite reassurances from Dominion Energy and state regulators regarding community involvement and impact assessments, environmental and ratepayer advocates continue to question the necessity of large fossil fuel infrastructure projects. With Virginia’s Clean Economy Act aiming to decarbonize the grid by mid-century, the approval of the LNG storage facility raises concerns about aligning with long-term climate goals.
Dominion Energy’s plans for incorporating a mix of carbon-emitting sources alongside renewable technologies to meet increasing demand underscore the complexities of transitioning to a cleaner energy future. The utility faces challenges in balancing reliability, cost, and environmental considerations while complying with state regulations and addressing climate change.
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Charles Paullin, a seasoned reporter based in Richmond, Virginia, brings a wealth of experience in covering energy and environmental issues. With a track record of award-winning reporting and a commitment to informing the public on critical issues, Paullin’s expertise sheds light on the complexities of energy infrastructure projects and their implications for communities and the environment.
