The Loudoun County School Board has voted to challenge Dominion Energy’s proposed high-voltage transmission line project, asking state regulators to reconsider plans that would place power lines across school property and near residential neighborhoods.
The decision came after more than an hour of public comments during Monday night’s board meeting. Residents, parents, and community members voiced concerns about the proposed routes, urging school officials to oppose the project and seek alternative locations.
Following the public hearing, the board voted to begin the legal process of formally requesting that state regulators review the previously approved project. School leaders are asking regulators to keep the transmission lines away from school property and nearby homes.
One of the most vocal opponents of the proposal is local resident Vicky Hu, who has become a leading community advocate against the project. Hu said the issue extends beyond her own property and affects thousands of homeowners across the county.
She argued that approving the current proposal could create a precedent for similar infrastructure projects in residential communities. Hu encouraged residents to remain involved as the regulatory process continues.
Dominion Energy maintains that the project is necessary to meet growing electricity demand across Northern Virginia. Company officials say additional transmission infrastructure is needed to ensure a reliable power supply as the region continues to expand.
According to Dominion, the proposed high-voltage transmission line is designed to strengthen the electric grid and support increasing energy needs driven by rapid economic growth.
During interviews following the school board meeting, Dominion Energy Managing Counsel David DePippo said the company still expects the project to move forward despite the board’s action.
He said one of the proposed routes, or a modified version developed through continued discussions with the school board and local community, is expected to be built. Dominion indicated it remains open to working with stakeholders to address concerns while meeting the region’s power requirements.
The school board’s vote does not immediately stop the project. Instead, it begins a formal process requesting that state regulators reconsider their previous approval and evaluate possible alternatives.
The transmission line proposal comes as Loudoun County continues to experience significant growth, particularly in the data center industry. The county has become one of the world’s largest hubs for data centers, creating increasing demand for reliable electricity infrastructure.
Officials estimate that approximately 250 data centers are currently operating in Loudoun County, with around 100 additional facilities planned or under development. The expanding industry has generated substantial tax revenue for the county while also increasing pressure on the region’s electric grid.
Supporters of the transmission project argue that additional infrastructure is essential to maintain reliable service for residents, businesses, and future development. They say expanding the power grid is necessary to accommodate continued economic growth.
Opponents, however, continue to raise concerns about the placement of transmission towers near schools and neighborhoods. Many residents are asking regulators to consider routes that minimize impacts on residential communities and public property.
The Virginia regulatory process will continue as officials review the school board’s request and any additional public comments. State regulators will determine whether changes to the approved routes are appropriate before construction moves forward.
For now, both Dominion Energy and community leaders say discussions will continue as they work through possible alternatives. The outcome will play an important role in balancing the county’s growing energy needs with community concerns over the location of major utility infrastructure.
