SCC to review Dominion Energy’s rate increase proposal, new data center rate class

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Virginia regulators are preparing to decide how much customers will pay for electricity as Dominion Energy seeks approval for new rate increases that would raise costs for customers.

On Tuesday, Sept. 2, the State Corporation Commission (SCC) will begin reviewing Dominion Energy’s proposal to increase customers’ bills by an average of $21 per month within the next two years.

Dominion Energy announced the new base and fuel rates in April after submitting filings to the SCC, which is its regulator. In a press release, the utility company said the rate changes were because of the increasing cost of labor, materials and equipment, power capacity and fuel, and grid upgrades.

The proposal also includes a new rate class for high-energy users, such as data centers. It would require these customers to sign a 14-year contract, paying for 60% of their contracted demand, even if they use less. Dominion said this rate class is meant to ensure other customers are protected from stranded costs.

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