Update Regarding Comprehensive Plan

Tenaska intends to appeal the decision by the Planning Commission that the proposed Expedition Generating Station is not substantially in accord with the county’s comprehensive plan. The project would directly support the plan’s stated goals of economic development and financial sustainability, rural area preservation and environmental resource protection.

Our existing facility has been critical to the economic stability of Fluvanna County for more than 20 years. We’ve been among the top two taxpayers since our first facility began operating, and our plant employs 29 hard-working employees who are part of the fabric of the community. At the same time, we place little burden on local government and community resources. We truly are invested here.

We have demonstrated that commitment by continuing to incorporate community feedback into our plans and providing additional information and resources to aid the county with its decision-making.

Clearly, the presence of our existing facility has not deterred residents from moving to Fluvanna County or from staying here. As highlighted in the memo prepared by the former director of the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, our facility complies with standards for air and water that are intentionally designed to protect human health and the environment. Preliminary air quality modeling for maximum cumulative impacts from both the existing plant and Expedition combined predicts emissions to be 7 times less than the federal and state standards. The Rivanna River, where the existing plant discharges, is among the healthiest in the state.

We believe a second facility will help Fluvanna County meet its goals of rural preservation and economic vibrance. Given the existing infrastructure, there are few other investments that can provide such a significant source of tax revenue (nearly $250 million), as well as stable jobs and millions of dollars in community benefits, while also being willing and able to preserve some 700 acres of land.

We understand the level of scrutiny and diligence the county is putting forth. But we also believe the facts demonstrate the alignment of the proposed Expedition project with Fluvanna County’s further prosperity.