Power Line Controversy

I'm sure by now you’ve heard about the controversy that’s going on with Dominion Power. Last fall, the situation exploded into the public eye when Dominion had proposed a route to build high-voltage power lines through many pristine and protected areas in Virginia, as well as through residential communities, to include Civil War battlefields, Historic Landmarks, and the Appalachian Trail (PEC). Needless to say, the public was outraged by the proposal. Many conservationists and residents have rallied against the proposal at community meetings, energy rallies, and other public events.
In retaliation from the strong opposition, Dominion officials stated that Northern Virginia’s demand for electricity is expected to grow over 8% in the next five years and insisted that the area would experience multiple black-outs without the new lines (Shear & Gardner). They also released an advertisement that states, “Without a new transmission line, it will be lights out in Northern Virginia” (DVP). However, little evidence has been provided from Dominion to prove the need for the new line. Many bills have been proposed to suggest Dominion bury the lines in the ground despite the heightened cost, but Dominion doesn’t seem to consider this an option.
Last month, Dominion proposed a new line that would bypass many of the controversial areas in Virginia in an attempt to lessen the opposition, but the people were not satisfied. The power lines would still lower the values of the homes they were visible from, be a danger to children in the area, and pose a possible health threat to the communities they encompass. Affected residents are making changes in their energy consumption in an attempt to reduce the need for the new lines. They are switching their light sources to energy-efficient light bulbs that have been proven to save hundreds of dollars a year off electric bills (PEC) and turning lights, TV’s, and other electronics off when not in use.
If the transmission line must be built, Dominion should bury the line. Those affected by the line obviously are against it being constructed above-ground. Although the extra cost will undoubtedly be passed along to its customers, it would be well worth the price. The construction that will take place will be an annoyance during the length of the project, but the end result will be aesthetically pleasing and seems to be the best compromise for both sides.
Dominion Virginia Power. 04/10/07. Dominion®. 04/10/07.

In Nod To Foes, Dominion to Revisit Route Options. 01/24/07. The Washington Post. 04/10/07. <www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/01/23/AR2007012301316.html>

PEC. 04/09/07. Piedmont Environmental Council. 04/10/07.

Power Line To Track Existing N.Va. Route. 02/12/07. The Washington Post. 04/10/07. <www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/02/12/AR2007021201662.html>