Community Engagement
To identify transmission route options from Naval Air Station Oceana to Fentress Substation, Dominion Energy conducted a study that included the Hampton Roads region and extensive engagement with the community.
With this study, we reviewed the locations of neighborhoods, public use and gathering spots, schools, churches and parks, and important natural resources such as wetlands and historical and archaeological sites. We also evaluated existing rights-of-way and opportunities to co-locate with other infrastructure, such as existing transmission lines, roads and railways.
To better understand the community's needs and how best to bring the clean, sustainable energy onshore to homes and businesses, we held virtual and in-person public meetings and conducted numerous individual and small group meetings, topic-specific workshops and roundtables. In addition, we consulted with a local historian and directly engaged historically underrepresented communities and Native American tribes. We also deployed an online interactive tool called GeoVoice, which provided community members the opportunity to review the route options and share feedback.
Explore GeoVoice
As a result of community involvement and input, Dominion Energy identified a proposed transmission line route and several alternatives and filed a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) with the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) on November 5, 2021. After nine months of careful review, the SCC selected the transmission line route that will support the CVOW project.
Proposed Transmission Line Route
To connect to our existing Fentress Substation in Chesapeake, the underground line at State Military Reservation proceeds to Naval Air Station Oceana where it transitions to overhead. It then continues toward Dam Neck Road, connecting with an existing transmission right-of-way near the Castleton neighborhood.
The proposed route continues west, overlapping the former Southeastern Parkway and Greenbelt roadway project until just past Princess Anne Road. It then moves southwest, crossing Salem Road and the Intracoastal Waterway in Chesapeake. The route turns south toward Battlefield Golf Course before heading west into Fentress Substation.
Of the options considered by the SCC, the proposed route maximizes use of publicly owned land and existing rights-of-way. It also minimizes, to the greatest extent possible, impacts to private property, the community, environment, and historical and cultural resources.