Dozens of experts considered numerous alternatives to bring clean power to the Peninsula—electrical engineers, environmental specialists, the Virginia State Corporation Commission and the Virginia Supreme Court. They looked at solar, wind, and natural gas options, underground gas lines, and even retooling the aging coal units at Yorktown Power Station.
The facts consistently proved these options wouldn’t work. Some were too tough on the environment or cultural sites. Others were unable to deliver enough power. Still others would cost too much and take too long to build. Experts agree that the Surry-Skiffes Creek transmission line is the best option to power the Peninsula, with the least environmental impact and lowest costs to customers.