Bill > HJR44

This joint resolution requests the State Corporation Commission's Division of Public Utility Regulation, a state agency responsible for overseeing public utilities, to conduct a study on placing electrical transmission lines underground. The study will examine the advantages and costs of undergrounding these lines, which are crucial for delivering electricity, and explore ways to simplify the processes for approving and permitting such construction. The Division is also directed to consult with various groups, including local government representatives, PJM Interconnection (a regional transmission organization that manages the electric grid), electric companies, and technical experts. The Department of Energy will provide technical support, and other state agencies will assist as needed. The Division must complete its work by November 30, 2026, and submit a report of its findings and recommendations to the Governor and the General Assembly by the start of the 2027 legislative session. This study is prompted by the Commonwealth's policy to ensure reliable and affordable energy, anticipated growth in electricity demand, particularly from data centers, and the complexity of developing new transmission lines.

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/HJ44