Project Timeline
2026
Initial communications with local landowners
Engagement with Smyth County officials to prepare Special Use Permit (SUP) application and offer to negotiate siting agreement
SUP application submission to Smyth County
County Planning Commission public meeting and Board of Supervisors public hearing to consider request for SUP and siting agreement approval
County decisions on SUP and siting agreement (expected by the end of the year)
2027
Anticipated submittal of application for Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) to the Virginia State Corporation Commission (VA SCC)
2028
VA SCC ruling anticipated on Laurel Creek II’s CPCN application
Siting agreement introduction between Laurel Creek Energy Storage II LLC and Smyth County (If SUP application is approved)
2031
Anticipated start of construction
2032
Anticipated commercial operation date
Local Outreach
Laurel Creek Energy Storage II is being developed with a focus on meeting the needs of Virginia’s grid and the customers it serves. We are committed to working with the Smyth County community and keeping its residents involved throughout the entire development process.
Community Benefits
The Laurel Creek Energy Storage II facility will be a good neighbor and a valuable asset to the surrounding community for decades to come. The project will provide necessary capacity to the region with no air polluting emissions or water discharges. As a static facility with insignificant traffic and minimal municipal services, the Laurel Creek II facility will have little impact on neighbors. Significant project benefits to the community include:
High-paying construction jobs
Enhanced resiliency from a new, state-of-the-art power resource
Expanded property tax base for the local district