Chesapeake Utilities Embarks on Major Natural Gas Expansion Project in Virginia

Chesapeake Utilities Corporation recently received the green light from the Accomack County Board of Supervisors to proceed with a substantial natural gas pipeline expansion project aimed at improving energy stability for the Eastern Shore of Virginia. This project marks a significant step in enabling access to affordable natural gas in an area that has been devoid of piped services until now.

The initiative is backed by a $6.5 million contribution from Accomack County, sourced through a state grant. This funding is designated to kick-start the pipeline infrastructure development, which will extend from a point just outside Princess Anne, Maryland, to Temperanceville, Virginia. Once completed, this pipeline will cater to not only residential homes but also major employers in the region, including the NASA Wallops Flight Facility and various local poultry operations. This new energy resource is expected to offer a more economical and reliable alternative to conventional electricity and heating oil.

Jeff Householder, the president and CEO of Chesapeake Utilities, expressed enthusiasm about this infrastructure project, stating, “Access to natural gas is an essential catalyst for economic growth. We’re proud to partner with Accomack County and the Commonwealth of Virginia to explore infrastructure that will support employers, attract new industry, and lower energy costs for the community.” His comments emphasize the vision behind this expansion project, highlighting its potential to stimulate economic development in the area.

A state-commissioned study conducted in 2022 underscored the necessity of natural gas access as a crucial element for the region's future economic landscape. Currently, Accomack County doesn't offer piped natural gas, which limits energy options for its residents and businesses. This expansion will not only broaden access to a more affordable energy resource but will also encourage a sustainable energy future for the community.

The initial funding will be used to cover the first phase of the project, which involves crucial steps such as engineering, permitting, land acquisition, and developing an estimate for the capital investment needed for the undertaking.

About Chesapeake Utilities Corporation

Chesapeake Utilities Corporation operates as a diversified energy delivery company, publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol CPK. The company provides a variety of sustainable energy solutions, including natural gas transmission and distribution, electricity generation and distribution, propane gas services, mobile compressed natural gas utility solutions, and more. For those interested in learning more about their offerings, detailed information is available at www.chpk.com.

The project promises to reshape the energy landscape of Virginia's Eastern Shore, leading to greater economic opportunities and long-term benefits for the local community. As the engineering and planning phases commence, stakeholders remain optimistic about the prospects of this significant natural gas infrastructure project.