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Bill

SB 772

State Corporation Commission; reliable electricity provision.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ryan McDougle

SB 772 directs Virginia's State Corporation Commission to establish and enforce electricity reliability standards with performance metrics and penalties for utility non-compliance.

Fiscal Impact Statement from State Corporation Commission (SB772)
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Bill Summary · SB 772

Legislative bill overview

SB 772 requires Virginia's State Corporation Commission (SCC) to establish and enforce standards ensuring reliable electricity provision by utilities. The bill mandates that the SCC develop regulations defining reliability metrics, performance benchmarks, and penalties for utilities failing to meet these standards.

Why is this important

Electricity reliability directly affects public safety, economic productivity, and quality of life. Clear regulatory standards can incentivize utilities to invest in grid infrastructure, reduce outages, and protect vulnerable populations during service disruptions. However, stricter requirements may increase utility operating costs, potentially raising consumer rates.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Reliability improvements require infrastructure investment that utilities typically pass to ratepayers; the fiscal impact statement may reveal significant rate increase concerns
  • Standard-setting authority: Disagreement over whether the SCC has adequate expertise and resources to develop technically sound, enforceable reliability metrics versus potential overreach
  • Competitive tension: Large commercial customers may prefer market-based solutions and lower rates, while residential customers and advocates may prioritize reliability over cost

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

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