Henrico County, Virginia, ordered government staff to conserve electricity following a 25% rate hike from Dominion Energy. The rate increase affects approximately 170 government entities across the region.
County officials project the hike will add $5 million to annual electricity costs for government and school buildings. Employees must now limit the use of lights, chargers, and personal appliances.
Surging power demand from Northern Virginia data centers directly caused the price increase. The situation highlights growing grid strain as utilities manage massive load growth while maintaining affordability for public entities.