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Bill

SB 1160

Electric utilities; State Corporation Commission to establish an emissions intensity target program.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Bill DeSteph and 1 co-sponsor

Virginia law would require electric utilities to establish and track emissions intensity targets under State Corporation Commission oversight to measure greenhouse gas output per unit of electricity generated.

Passed by indefinitely in Commerce and Labor (9-Y 6-N)
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Bill Summary · SB 1160

Legislative bill overview

SB 1160 directs Virginia's State Corporation Commission to establish an emissions intensity target program for electric utilities, requiring them to measure and report greenhouse gas emissions relative to electricity generation. The bill creates a regulatory framework for tracking utility-level emissions performance over time.

Why is this important

This legislation would create measurable climate accountability mechanisms for Virginia's largest electricity providers, directly affecting how the state approaches carbon reduction goals and utility regulation. The program's structure could influence utility investment priorities, electricity rates, and Virginia's ability to meet state and federal climate targets.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory burden vs. climate action: Opponents may argue the reporting requirements impose unnecessary costs on utilities, while supporters contend accountability mechanisms are essential for meaningful emissions reductions
  • Market design questions: Disagreement over whether intensity targets (emissions per unit output) versus absolute emissions reductions better serve climate goals and whether the approach is economically efficient
  • Implementation scope: Unclear whether the program includes penalties for non-compliance, rate recovery mechanisms for compliance costs, and how stringent initial targets should be—creating uncertainty about actual regulatory impact

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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