There is no such thing as winning all the time. Sometimes all you can do is continue to struggle and hope for the best.
Some time back Hearing Examiner Alexander F. Skirpan Jr. asked the public what they thought of the Meadow Brook to Loudoun 500 kV Line. Most people generally had a low opinion of the whole idea. Undoubtedly, many complained just because they did not want it in their backyard. However, many also complained because they honestly thought it wasteful. Nonetheless, Skirpan ruled in favor of Dominion.
In a report filed Monday, Hearing Examiner Alexander F. Skirpan Jr. said construction is necessary to serve northern Virginia and resolve overloads projected to occur beginning in 2011.
Skirpan recommended that regulators approve the Virginia segments as long as the parts of the line in other states are approved.
In determining the route for the Virginia portion, Skirpan recommended the SCC consider locating the lines partially or wholly within existing transmission right of way.
The commission has the final decision on whether to approve the line. (from here)
Before you judge Skirpan as a pawn of powerful special interests, I suggest reading his report. Of course Dominion has posted the report on its website (see here), but it is also on the SCC website (see here). Note that the document takes a while to download from the SCC website. :grin: (There is a way to download the document from the SCC website, but it is easier to set up a link to the Dominion website.).
Newspaper reports are generally neutral (See here, here, here and here for other examples.).
The PIEDMONT ENVIRONMENTAL COUNCIL is still fighting (see here).
Other Views
Bacon’s Rebellion jumped on the issue (see here).
The Capon Valley Coalition expressed its disappointment (see here).
Raising Kaine is rooting for the Southern Environmental Law Center (see here). (Author’s Note: Although I have little use for this power line, I have less use for environmental lawyers. I think the lawyers are the reason we are building this infernal thing. The SCC has a job to do. Our job is to make certain our leaders appoint the right people to the SCC.)
