Virginia House Committee Approves Energy Plan
The Richmond Times-Dispatch reports that the Virginia House Committee on Commerce and Labor approved legislation yesterday that encourages the creation of a state energy plan, including identification of appropriate sites for LNG facilities. The bill’s sponsor, Delegate L. Scott Lingamfelter (R), stated “Virginia could be a leader in recognizing states have a fundamental need to develop their own energy plans.” To promote the utilization of new energy sources, the State Corporation Commission (SCC) would be charged with identifying appropriate sites for energy resources, such as nuclear powerplants and LNG facilities. Companies choosing to construct a facility at a SCC-approved site would receive favorable treatment with respect to local zoning laws. A similar measure has been approved by the Senate Committee on Commerce and Labor. [Print edition only]