Creation Covenant Alliance

Dominion Energy Announces 3.4 GW Expansion in Offshore Wind Capacity

Dominion Energy's 2024 IRP outlines plans to meet power demand with new generation, prioritizing wind and solar.
Dominion Energy Plans to Add 3.4 GW of New Offshore Wind

Dominion Energy Virginia has submitted its 2024 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) to the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) and the North Carolina Utilities Commission (NCUC), detailing various strategies to meet increasing power demands, including the addition of offshore wind energy.

The IRP is informed by a PJM forecast, which anticipates a 5.5% annual power demand growth in Dominion’s delivery zone over the next decade, potentially doubling by 2039.

This plan is a strategic framework rather than a direct proposal for specific projects, based on existing technology, market dynamics, and demand projections.

Dominion Energy aims for 80% of its new power generation over the next 15 years to be carbon-free.

This includes 3,400 MW of offshore wind capacity, complementing the ongoing 2,600 MW Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind (CVOW) project. The CVOW project will deploy 176 Siemens Gamesa 14 MW turbines, making it the largest US offshore wind farm when operational.

The plan also proposes 12,000 MW of solar energy, 4,500 MW of battery storage, and introduces small modular nuclear reactors starting in the mid-2030s.

Approximately 20% of the plan’s power generation will come from natural gas, ensuring reliable backup power when wind and solar resources are limited, according to Dominion Energy.

“We are experiencing the largest growth in power demand since the years following World War II. No single energy source, grid solution or energy efficiency program will reliably serve the growing needs of our customers. We need an ‘all-of-the-above’ approach, and we are developing innovative solutions to ensure we deliver for our customers,” said Ed Baine, President of Dominion Energy Virginia.

In August, Virginia Electric and Power Co., a Dominion Energy subsidiary, secured a lease area in the Central Atlantic offshore wind auction in the US with a bid of approximately USD 17.7 million (EUR 16 million). This area, spanning 176,505 acres (around 714 square kilometers), is situated about 35 nautical miles (almost 65 kilometers) from Chesapeake Bay’s entrance.

In July, Iberdrola agreed to sell Dominion’s subsidiary the Kitty Hawk North Wind offshore wind lease area. The site, located about 40 kilometers north of the CVOW project, will be renamed CVOW-South, pending regulatory approval.

Original Story at www.offshorewind.biz

Trending News

Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024