TC Energy submits formal application to U.S. Federal Regulators for Virginia Reliability Project approval

TC Energy Corporation (today announced that it has submitted its formal application to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for approval of the Virginia Reliability Project (Docket No. PF22-3-000/CP22-503).

“The Virginia Reliability Project will update a 49-mile-stretch of the Columbia Gas Transmission pipeline with state-of-the-art technology. The project will create thousands of local jobs, boost the Hampton Roads region’s economy, and supply the area with clean, abundant energy,” said Alex Stroman, Director, US State Government and Community Relations for TC Energy. “TC Energy is proud to have our name on this important project and we look forward to working with state and federal officials and community leaders to move it forward.”   

Columbia Gas Transmission’s (TCO) Virginia Reliability Project (VRP) is an expansion and reliability project that would replace two existing segments of the TCO pipeline system to continue reliable and abundant natural gas supply. TCO has been providing energy to the Hampton Roads region for more than 70 years, and as demand for natural gas rises across the region alongside the region’s rapid growth and development, these important updates will improve natural gas reliability and help meet the current and future needs of the Hampton Roads region.

The project involves replacing approximately 49 miles of existing 12-inch diameter pipeline with 24-inch diameter pipeline with state-of-the-art steel pipe, along with cutting-edge technology that will help enhance reliability and energy efficiency along the TCO system. These updates include a new hybrid electric compressor unit at the Emporia Compressor station that will limit emissions.

Since announcing its pre-application with FERC in December 2021, TC Energy has conducted extensive in-person outreach to communities along the project route. This outreach has included visiting homes and businesses with proximity to the existing line and engaging in conversations with community leaders to ensure inclusiveness in the contracting process for VRP. In addition, TC Energy hosted a series of community open house events in Windsor, Chesapeake, and Emporia.

VRP has received broad bipartisan support from state and local elected officials, community members, and business leaders from throughout Hampton Roads and beyond.

The VRP will result in an estimated $562.6 million in economic output. The construction of the VRP will create more than 3,600 jobs, generate almost $200 million in associated labor income, and result in an estimated $562.6 million in economic output.

Visit https://www.tcenergy.com/operations/natural-gas/virginia-reliability-project/ for more information on the Virginia Reliability Project.