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- calendar_today November 10, 2026
Richmond Leaders Postpone Decision on Dominion-NextEra Merger Opposition
On November 9, Richmond City Council deferred a key vote on whether to officially oppose the Dominion-NextEra merger, one of the largest proposed utility mergers in U.S. history. The council voted 5-2-2 to delay taking a formal stance on the $67 billion deal until after further developments and public input.
Background on the Proposed Utility Merger
Florida-based NextEra Energy seeks to merge with Virginia’s Dominion Energy, as announced in filings made by the two companies in mid-July. If approved, the merger would become the largest of its kind nationally. The proposal has garnered significant attention across Virginia from officials and citizens alike, especially regarding concerns about potential increases in energy costs.
Council’s Previous Involvement and Actions
In September, the Richmond City Council unanimously approved a resolution that allowed the city to participate in the merger case, stating an “absolute, unequivocal interest” in its outcome. The latest resolution, introduced by Councilwoman Kenya Gibson, would have declared the city’s total opposition to the merger, citing potential conflicts with the city's RVA Green 2050 Climate Equity Action Plan.
Public Hearing and Council Debate
During the November 9 public meeting, numerous Richmond residents voiced support for the resolution to oppose the merger. Only one resident, who identified as a Dominion Energy employee, spoke against it. The council was divided on how best to proceed, weighing the urgency of taking a stance against the ongoing changes in the merger proposal.
Councilwoman Stephanie Lynch expressed personal opposition to the merger but suggested that the resolution, as written, could hinder city negotiations. Council Vice President Katherine Jordan and President Cynthia Newbille agreed that a formal stance was premature, with Newbille stating, “We don’t have all the information. It seems some progress has been made, significantly so, but it is not there yet.”
Conversely, Councilors Kenya Gibson and Andrew Breton made clear their belief that no version of the merger would benefit Richmond. Breton stated, “I am confident that this deal, and every version of it we’ve seen so far, is bad for Virginians.”
Decision to Defer and Next Steps
The council ultimately decided to postpone the vote until December 14. Councilors Kenya Gibson and Andrew Breton voted against the deferral, while Councilors Reva Trammell and Ellen Robertson abstained. This decision keeps Richmond’s official position on the energy companies merger unresolved for the time being.
The Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) continues to review the merger proposal, with a public hearing scheduled for November 17. The SCC's three-member commission is expected to reach a final decision on the merger in January 2027. Members of the public can submit comments online regarding the merger until November 12.
Key Takeaways
- The Richmond City Council deferred a vote on opposing the Dominion-NextEra utility merger.
- Concerns remain about potential impacts on energy costs and the city's environmental goals.
- The proposed $67 billion merger is subject to ongoing hearings by the Virginia State Corporation Commission.
- A new council vote on the merger resolution is expected December 14, following further public and regulatory input.
Source: wric.com.
