Delegate Michael Webert (R-61st) has requested that the State Corporation Commission (SCC) take steps to shield Virginia’s residential and small business electricity customers from rising power costs linked to data center expansion. In a letter addressed to SCC Commissioners, Webert outlined concerns about the increasing energy demands in Northern Virginia driven by the data center industry. He noted that these demands have led to higher capacity auction prices and greater dependence on imported electricity, which he argues results in families and small businesses subsidizing large industrial users.
Webert referenced legislative efforts in Richmond, highlighting the passage of HB2084 in 2025 as a measure designed to prompt regulatory action. He served as a co-patron of this bill after similar legislation he introduced in 2024 was not adopted, despite being later recommended by a JLARC study. According to Webert, “Before Virginia seriously considers new regulatory powers that can impact other businesses, it is essential that it exercises its existing powers.”
The letter calls for the Commission to apply its current authority so utility costs are distributed fairly among all customer classes, reflecting the intent behind the Virginia Electric Utility Regulation Act. Webert stressed the importance of immediate intervention during ongoing rate cases to prevent an unfair shift of costs onto smaller customers.
“Full letter at the link below”
