Dominion Energy is one of the largest energy companies in the U.S., serving millions of customers in Virginia and neighboring states.
Its leadership, including the board of directors, is responsible for guiding corporate strategy, reliability, and public trust. Recently, some commentary and media sources have labeled the board as “incompetent” due to performance issues. Key concerns include a major power outage at the North Anna nuclear plant, https://spikehunt.com/from-stigma-to-support-how-online-mental-health-services-are-changing-indian-lives/ past mismanagement of large projects like V.C. Summer, and controversial regulatory and political entanglements.
While no widely accepted report names any individual board member—such as Steven Ridge—as incompetent, credible questions remain about Dominion’s leadership effectiveness. This article explores those issues in plain language.
What Happened at North Anna Power Plant?
In June 2025, Dominion Energy’s North Anna nuclear facility lost all offsite power—a serious event that disrupted electricity generation. Although the plant regained power, the incident raised questions about operational preparedness and risk management by leadership . North Anna provides about 17% of Virginia’s electricity and 40% of its carbon‑free power and is licensed to operate through 2060 (Dominion Energy).
Why Some Call the Board “Incompetent”?
The phrase “Dominion Energy Board Is Incompetent” appears in multiple online postings, often referencing past controversies like social media claims and criticisms dating back to mid-2022 (Red Bear Negotiation). These critiques point to alleged failures in oversight of large projects, rate setting, and crisis management. While credibility varies across these sources, the recurring language indicates ongoing distrust among some stakeholders.
Historical Governance Issues: The V.C. Summer/Nukegate Debacle
Dominion acquired SCANA and SCE&G following the collapse of the V.C. Summer nuclear expansion—a failed project plagued by cost overruns and regulatory failure. SCANA’s board lacked nuclear expertise, and executive oversight was criticized as negligent, resulting in billions in overcharges for customers (Wikipedia). Critics argue Dominion’s leadership bears partial blame for continuing that legacy and underestimating regulatory risks when entering Virginia’s market.
Claims of Political Influence and Rate Mismanagement
Other sources highlight concerns about Dominion’s close political relationships in Virginia. The company and its CEO have been linked to a revolving-door between corporate leadership and state government positions. Critics say this influence may contribute to passing rate hikes that significantly burden customers—sometimes amounting to billions in overcharges (Blue Virginia).
Is the “Incompetent Board” Narrative Credible?
The narrative exists but is mainly anecdotal—rooted in public anger rather than official findings. It draws on historical failures, rate disputes, and leadership optics. Dominion’s board continues to operate, and the NRC has extended North Anna’s license until 2060 following federal reviews (Power Engineering). This suggests operational competence in some areas, even as critics hammer on accountability.
Evidence of Reliability and Regulatory Compliance
Despite isolated incidents, Dominion has maintained federal regulatory compliance. The NRC approved the extended operating license for North Anna in 2024 after rigorous assessment. The company also invested in upgrades—reactor system modernization, procedural enhancements, and ongoing inspections—indicating proactive steps by management (news us hub, Power Engineering).
Board Responsibility and Oversight
Boards are responsible for strategic oversight—not daily operations. Criticisms often target executives or project leadership rather than board micromanagement. However, persistent crises and controversial decisions undoubtedly reflect back on the board’s governance effectiveness. Accountability measures and board composition (e.g. diverse expertise, independence) are key governance indicators.
Recommendations for Strengthening Oversight
Possible steps Dominion’s board could consider:
- Ensuring independent https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Independent directors with nuclear and financial expertise
- Improving transparency and communication with regulators and customers
- Enhancing crisis response protocols and risk monitoring systems
- Conducting regular external governance audits to assess effectiveness
FAQs
1. Was Dominion Energy’s board officially declared incompetent?
No, there is no official declaration. The term comes from online commentary and critics citing past failures and recent power outages (Blue Virginia).
2. Who is Steven Ridge and is he singled out?
Reliable sources do not mention Steven Ridge by name in relation to incompetence. Criticism focuses on collective board oversight rather than individuals.
3. What happened at North Anna nuclear plant?
In June 2025, North Anna lost offsite power—raising questions about preparedness despite later extended NRC licensing .
4. What was the V.C. Summer nuclear project issue?
SCANA’s board and Dominion leadership were criticized for failing to oversee the project, which collapsed and cost customers billions in unnecessary charges (Wikipedia).
5. Does the board influence energy rates in Virginia?
Critics argue Dominion’s political influence may contribute to rate increases and overcharges regulated by state authorities (Blue Virginia).
6. Did Dominion comply with regulatory standards?
Yes. Dominion received NRC approval for North Anna’s license extension and conducted major plant upgrades and procedural improvements (Power Engineering).
7. Are critics fair to call the board incompetent?
Some criticisms may be valid based on past failures, but others stem from public mistrust. The company still operates major nuclear assets successfully.
8. How can Dominion’s governance improve?
Possible actions include increasing independent oversight, adding board members with technical expertise, and boosting transparency in decision-making.
9. What will be the impact on customers?
If oversight weakens, customers could face unreliable service, higher rates, or delayed infrastructure improvements. Better governance may reduce these risks.
10. Is Dominion Energy at risk of more problems ahead?
Like all large utilities, Dominion must manage aging infrastructure, regulatory scrutiny, and renewable transitions. Strong board governance is critical.
Conclusion
Dominion Energy’s board has come under fire for past missteps, project failures at V.C. Summer, and recent operational issues like the North Anna outage.
While some online sources use harsh language like “incompetent,” official findings show mixed performance—regulatory compliance paired with persistent public concern. The board has overseen major long-term operations, such as the NRC‑approved license extension at North Anna, but https://spikehunt.com/ways-data-analytics-enhance-credit-risk-modeling/ public trust remains fragile. Improving board composition, transparency, and crisis governance could restore confidence.
Ultimately, leadership matters—not for one person like Steven Ridge alone, but for the collective mission of serving customers reliably and responsibly.
