Arlington County Board votes to Intervene in Dominion/NextEra Merger

At a special meeting on September 2, 2026, the Arlington County Board voted to formally intervene in the State Corporation Commission (SCC) proceeding related to the acquisition of Dominion Energy Inc., by NextEra. The Board will file a notice of participation as a respondent, enabling the County to actively represent Arlington’s interests as this landmark merger moves through the regulatory review process.  

“NextEra’s proposed acquisition of control of Dominion Energy carries significant implications for Arlington County residents, businesses, and municipal operations,” said Board Chair Matt de Ferranti. “Residents are already seeing increasing energy bills. I believe we must intervene to protect our resident ratepayers, prioritize affordability, and advance the County clean energy commitments.” 

"It is our responsibility to protect and fight for the interests of Arlington and our residents,” said Vice-Chair Maureen Coffey. “The only way for us to do this in this case—which, if approved, would shape energy in Arlington for generations to come—is by being party to the proceedings. It is imperative that we remain active and engaged over the coming months.” 

“Any merger cannot jeopardize Arlington’s climate and energy commitments, including becoming a carbon neutral community by 2050,” said Board member Susan Cunningham. “From already 100% renewable electricity County facilities to last year’s Climate Action Resolution and our current Climate Action Plan development, our vision for a greener and cleaner Arlington is non-negotiable. Getting the details of any merger right will be crucial to continuing this progress.”  

“The bottom-line for me is affordability, and homeowners and renters alike have already seen their electric rates go up,” said Board member Julius D. “JD” Spain, Sr. “Failure to act in this historic moment is not an option, and runs counter to the core values that I believe are fundamental to being a public servant. I am deeply proud to say that this Board is not beholden to any Utility interest and is centering this decision squarely on the needs and goals of our community.”  

"We act on behalf of our residents, but the truth is that all Virginians are in the same boat here,” said Board member Karantonis. “This merger needs to be significantly modified to meet the wide-ranging climate and energy goals we as localities have been working toward and to address the deep affordability challenges that families face every day.”  

Background of the Merger
On July 15, 2026, NextEra Energy and Dominion Energy filed a joint petition with the SCC seeking approval for a merger. If approved, this $67 billion buyout would represent the largest energy merger in the history of our nation and would create the largest regulated electric utility in the world. If the merger occurs, this combined company would serve approximately 10 million customers across Virginia, Florida, North Carolina, and South Carolina, including approximately 2.7 million households here in Virginia. The SCC is expected to make a decision January 2027. 

The SCC is currently accepting public comments on the proposed Dominion Energy–NextEra merger. November 2 is the last day to file as a public witness before testimony will be given on November 5, 9, and 10. November 9 is the last day to submit written comments. Visit the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) website, go to Submit Public Comments, and search for docket PUR-2026-00112 to share your feedback. 

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Media Contact

David Barrera
Comms & Constituent Services Manager
Arlington County Board Office
dbarrera@arlingtonva.us
703-228-3121

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