The Virginia General Assembly convened on January 28, 2025, to introduce House Bill No. 2755, a legislative proposal aimed at establishing a pilot program for underground electric transmission lines. Sponsored by Delegate Singh, the bill seeks to enhance the understanding of underground transmission lines concerning electric reliability, construction methods, and associated costs and timelines.

The primary objective of HB2755 is to facilitate the construction of qualifying electrical transmission lines, specifically those rated between 69 kilovolts and 500 kilovolts, with a focus on underground installations. The pilot program will allow for two qualifying projects, with one project specifically targeting a 5.3-mile transmission line that includes approximately 3.1 miles of underground construction. This project is notable as it is pending final approval from the Commission and is proposed to be located adjacent to an interstate highway.

Key provisions of the bill include a streamlined approval process for the underground construction segment, which mandates that the Commission must approve the project within 30 days of receiving a request from the public utility. Notably, the bill alleviates the requirement for additional technical and cost analyses as a condition for approval, although the Commission retains the right to request such information for its review.

The introduction of HB2755 has sparked discussions regarding its potential economic and environmental benefits, particularly in promoting economic development through improved electric reliability. However, the bill may face scrutiny from stakeholders concerned about the costs associated with undergrounding transmission lines compared to traditional overhead lines.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, it will likely encounter debates surrounding its implications for utility companies, ratepayers, and environmental considerations. Experts suggest that successful implementation of the pilot program could pave the way for broader adoption of underground transmission lines in Virginia, potentially influencing future energy infrastructure projects.

In conclusion, HB2755 represents a significant step towards modernizing Virginia's electric transmission infrastructure, with the potential to enhance reliability and support economic growth. The upcoming discussions and decisions by the General Assembly will be crucial in determining the bill's fate and its impact on the state's energy landscape.