News Roundup: Renewable energy gains, the future of nuclear, and proposed relief for Virginians
Historic Solar Deal Powers Duke U. Toward Carbon Neutrality
Duke University recently entered into a partnership with an Asheville based solar developer to build three new solar facilities. Duke has the ambitious goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2024. These new facilities will make up approximately 50% of Duke’s energy needs and are expected to come online in 2022. Duke’s executive vice president explained the regulatory easing in North Carolina finally made it possible for the university to invest in large-scale solar. Read the full story here.
Virginia non-profit electric cooperative to install grid-scale battery storage
Rappahannock Electric Cooperative (REC) has started work on a large-scale storage project, the first of its kind in Virginia. The project, which is expected to be finished next year, will have 2MW peak output and 8MWh storage capacity. The co-op expects this investment to add resiliency to their grid and manage electricity costs by dispatching stored energy at peak hours. Read the full story here.
Dominion files to keep Virginia's North Anna nuclear plant operating 80 years
Dominion has filed for a 20-year extension on the North Anna nuclear power plant with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). The two units are currently licensed to operate until 2038 and 2040. If renewed, the plant would be operational until 2060. Proponents of nuclear energy believe this is necessary to reach Virginia’s emissions reduction goals. Read the full story here.
Northam wants Dominion Energy to forgive overdue electric bills using $320M in over-earnings
Late and missed utility bill payments are on the rise since the COVID-19 pandemic. Governor Northam wants to use Dominion’s overearnings to forgive the missed payments and prevent the utility from cutting off service to delinquent accounts. The proposal is currently making its way through the Virginia Special Session, as it needs to be approved by lawmakers. Read the full story here.