PSC opens case file for Valley Link transmission line protests
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MORGANTOWN - Although the proposed Valley Link transmission project does not exist yet, the Public Service Commission has set up a case file for West Virginia residents to file protests.
The case was established Monday - called "Protests regarding the future Valley Link project" - and as of Wednesday morning, 1,412 protests were on file: 14 of those came in on Tuesday, the rest were uploaded Monday.
PSC said in a Facebook post that while the official case for the proposed Valley Link Transmission Line has not yet been filed, it created this case for people to submit their comments online. The formal case is currently expected to be filed in 2027.
Valley Link says it is a partnership between Dominion Energy, Transource (in turn a partnership between American Electric Power and Energy) and FirstEnergy Transmission.
The project comprises two major 765-kilovolt transmission projects and a new 765kV substation project spanning a total 375 miles across West Virginia, Virginia and Maryland.
The Valley North segment would run from Putnam County into Frederick County, Maryland, spanning 260 miles. The Joshua Falls-Yeat segment would span 115 miles in Virginia. The Dominion substation is in Thornburg, Virginia.
Valley Link says on its website that "as energy demand continues to grow, PJM identified the need for new high-voltage transmission infrastructure to keep power flowing safely and reliably. In response, Valley Link proposed future-forward solutions through PJM's planning process, and in early 2025, these projects were approved."
It continues: "Valley Link's mission is simple: to build the infrastructure that keeps your lights on and powers the future while keeping bills as low as possible. By combining expertise from three leading utilities, Valley Link is committed to delivering cost-effective solutions that underpin economic growth, enable cleaner energy and ensure grid reliability for homes, businesses and communities across the region."
And: "Valley Link will mitigate overloading on existing lines, strengthen interstate energy connections and create the capacity required to support clean energy and economic vitality. Built with long-term reliability and community input at its core, Valley Link will help keep power dependable for millions of people, laying the foundation for a resilient and efficient energy future."
A sampling of protests
Here are just a few of the comments:
"Crazy stuff running a line so far. Through a state that will never realize any of the energy running through it. Disrupting the lives of your constituents. Also invading the natural beauty of this state. Established health concerns affecting anyone too close to the lines for any length of time. This is a stupid idea. Wake up and smell the coffee!"
A Romney couple approaching retirement says a 175-foot tower and 200-foot right of way will render their land unusable. "This transmission line project will negatively impact many citizens of Romney and the surrounding areas. People will lose their homes and businesses will be forced to close! Everyone involved knows a ‘fair market value’ offer won’t fairly compensate anyone."
And: "Although the proposed corridor may not cross our farm itself, its proximity and impacts on the surrounding agricultural and forest landscape make this project a significant concern to us as landowners and conservation-minded farmers. We recognize the importance of reliable electric service and responsible energy development.
"However," they continue, "the adverse impacts of the Valley Link project, as currently proposed, significantly outweigh any identifiable benefits to West Virginians. The project places disproportionate burdens on West Virginia families, farmers, landowners and rural communities while appearing to be driven in significant part by the need to deliver electricity to meet demands outside our communities and, in substantial measure, outside West Virginia."
How to submit
PSC tells concerned residents to submit their comments through the its website under Case No. FP Valley Link 26A.
To submit a comment, visit www.psc.state.wv.us; on the left-hand side, select Submit a Comment; select Formal Case; enter your information; submit your comment under Case No. FP Valley Link 26A.