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Dominion Energy Virginia is planning a substantial expansion of its power system as data centers help drive the largest increase in electricity demand in decades.

The utility filed its 2024 Integrated Resource Plan on Oct. 15, 2024, outlining a long-term regional strategy for providing reliable, affordable and increasingly clean electricity amid rapidly growing demand.

Dominion is already investing in its transmission network. During the first half of 2024, the company completed 123 transmission projects, including nearly 90 miles of new or rebuilt lines and 13 new substations.

Edward H. “Ed” Baine, Dominion’s president of Utility Operations, described it as “the largest growth in power demand since the years following World War II.”

One project would increase capacity along the Washington & Old Dominion Trail without constructing an entirely new transmission corridor. In a May 29 email, a Dominion spokesperson said the utility plans to replace the existing conductor—the wire carried by transmission structures—along a four-mile section between Vienna and Fairfax.

The replacement would allow that corridor to carry more electricity. Dominion said it evaluates each transmission project to find an effective solution that limits effects on surrounding areas while making the most of existing infrastructure.

Advanced sensors, analytics and other grid-enhancing technologies can also help utilities increase the capacity of existing wires. Dominion said those tools are part of its planning but remain only one of many factors considered during engineering analyses.

The company has also held discussions with NOVA Parks about long-term forestry maintenance along the trail. Dominion said it believes the two organizations can create a plan that protects the transmission system while supporting the trail’s natural habitat and preserving low-growing native plants.

Dominion said it will continue informing the public as its plans develop.