Bill > HB1822

This bill amends the Virginia Code to update the definition of "advanced conductors" and requires the State Corporation Commission (SCC) to consider the prudency of using advanced conductors when evaluating applications for electrical transmission line construction of 138 kilovolts or more. Specifically, the bill expands the definition of advanced conductors to include high-temperature low-sag hardware technologies that improve electricity transmission, such as aluminum conductor composite core and thermal-resistant aluminum alloy conductor. The legislation mandates that the SCC explicitly assess whether advanced conductor technologies could be advantageously employed in new transmission line projects, potentially promoting more efficient and innovative electrical infrastructure. The bill has a delayed effective date of January 1, 2026, which gives electric utilities and regulators time to prepare for the new evaluation criteria. This change aims to encourage the adoption of more advanced and potentially more efficient electrical transmission technologies by making their consideration a formal part of the regulatory review process for new transmission line projects.

Business and Industry

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/HB1822