House Speaker Endorses Offshore Wind Project in Virginia

The **Speaker of the House** is the presiding officer and leader of the United States House of Representatives, a role established by the Constitution and rooted in the British parliamentary system. The Speaker is elected every two years by House members and typically comes from the majority party, combining the roles of institutional head, majority party leader, and elected representative[1][3][6]. The Speaker’s core responsibilities include managing the daily order of business on the House floor, deciding which bills come to debate and vote, assigning committee leadership, and certifying passed measures. They maintain order, apply House rules, and recognize members who wish to speak, effectively shaping the legislative agenda and process. While the Speaker can vote as a regular member, they usually vote only in critical or tie-breaking situations[1][2][3][4]. Historically, the Speaker’s role has evolved from a relatively low-profile position to one of immense political power and influence. Early influential Speakers include Henry Clay, Thomas Brackett Reed, and Sam Rayburn. The Speaker also plays a significant part in negotiations between the House, the Senate, and the President, especially on budgetary and legislative priorities. Constitutionally, the Speaker is second in the presidential line of succession, following the Vice President, and has a role in presidential disability procedures under the 25th Amendment[1][6]. Notably, in October 2023, Speaker Kevin McCarthy was removed in a historic first via a motion to vacate, leading to Patrick McHenry serving as acting Speaker pro tempore until a new Speaker was elected. This highlights the political volatility and significance of the position in contemporary governance[2][6]. Currently, Representative Mike Johnson serves as the Speaker of the House. The Speaker’s leadership influences not only legislative outcomes but also broader political dynamics and party organization within the House[5].

## Overview Dominion Energy is one of the United States’ largest producers and transporters of energy, headquartered in Richmond, Virginia[6]. The company delivers regulated electricity to 3.6 million homes and businesses across Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina, and regulated natural gas service to 500,000 customers in South Carolina[6]. Dominion Energy is also recognized as a leading developer and operator of regulated offshore wind and solar power, and is the largest producer of carbon-free electricity in New England[6]. Its mission centers on providing reliable, affordable, and increasingly clean energy while minimizing environmental impacts and strengthening the communities it serves[8]. ## History and Evolution Dominion’s roots trace back to 1909 with the founding of the Virginia Railway & Power Company, which initially focused on electric and transportation services in Virginia[1][2]. In 1925, the company was renamed the Virginia Electric and Power Company (VEPCO), reflecting its growing emphasis on electricity generation and distribution[1][2]. The mid-20th century saw significant expansion, including the development of thermal and nuclear power plants[1]. A major transformation occurred in 1983 with the creation of Dominion Resources, Inc., a holding company that diversified beyond traditional utility operations into investment management and real estate[3][4]. The company’s strategic acquisitions, such as the 2000 merger with Consolidated Natural Gas, propelled it into the ranks of the largest integrated natural gas and electric companies in the U.S.[1][3]. In 2007, Dominion Resources rebranded as Dominion Energy, signaling a broader energy portfolio[1]. ## Key Achievements and Strategic Moves Dominion Energy’s growth has been marked by both expansion and strategic refocusing. Notable milestones include the acquisition of SCANA Corporation in 2017, which expanded its footprint in the Southeast and added significant natural gas and nuclear assets[2][4]. The company has also been a pioneer in renewable energy,

Ørsted A/S is a Danish multinational energy company and a global leader in renewable energy, particularly offshore wind power. Formerly known as DONG Energy until 2017, Ørsted has undergone a remarkable transformation from one of Europe's most coal-intensive utilities into one of the world's most sustainable energy companies. Headquartered in Fredericia, Denmark, it is the largest energy company in Denmark and a key player in the global clean energy transition[2][6]. Ørsted’s core business focuses on developing, owning, and operating renewable energy projects, including offshore and onshore wind farms, solar power, and energy storage solutions. The company operates approximately 18.5 GW of renewable energy capacity worldwide and has developed around 30% of the global offshore wind power capacity outside mainland China, making it the world’s largest offshore wind developer by installed capacity as of early 2022[2][4]. Ørsted aims to produce 99% of its energy from renewable sources by 2025 and achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040, with a goal of net-zero generation by 2025[2]. Historically, Ørsted was heavily reliant on fossil fuels, but its decade-long green transformation focused on sustainability and financial viability has made it a benchmark for the clean energy sector. This transformation involved divesting fossil fuel assets and investing heavily in offshore wind and other renewables, supported by technological innovation and strategic choices to balance environmental and economic goals[6]. Currently, Ørsted is executing its largest construction portfolio of 8.1 GW offshore wind projects across Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the U.S., with a workforce adjustment to optimize competitiveness and financial strength through 2027. The company recently strengthened its capital structure through a significant rights issue to support ongoing investments and operational excellence[1][3]. Notably, Ørsted was ranked ninth in the 2025 Corporate Knights Global 100 list of the world's most sustainable corporations, underscoring it