Online Archive of University of Virginia Scholarship
Timing and Leverage: An Analysis of Influence in Virginia’s Energy Future 6 views
Author
Zurita, Andrew, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Virginia
Advisors
Williams, Keith, EN-Elec & Comp Engr Dept, University of Virginia
Davis, William, EN-Engineering and Society, University of Virginia
Abstract
The subject of this research is on the underlying relationships and influence that actors in the decision-making process for Virginia’s future energy infrastructure. This paper asks if a leverage exists and how it is exercised over the course of three cases. This analysis is done utilizing Bruno Latour’s Actor Network Theory which treats new energy infrastructure in Virginia as the product of negotiations between human and institutional actors such as Dominion Energy, the State Corporation Commission, Board of Supervisors, and local community groups affected by proposed projects. Through case studies in Prince William County, Loudoun County, and Chesterfield County it is expected that the future outcome of Virginia’s energy infrastructure is not a matter of technical limitations but rather the decision of which actor successfully enrolls and leverages key allies within the network to better stabilize their position.
Degree
BS (Bachelor of Science)
Keywords
Actor Network Theory; Virginia Energy; Energy Infrastructure; Stakeholder Influence
Notes
School of Engineering and Applied Science
Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
Technical Advisor: Keith Williams
STS Advisor: William Davis
Technical Team Members: Korban Thepsoumane, Evan DiCosmo
Language
English
Rights
All rights reserved by the author (no additional license for public reuse)
Zurita, Andrew. Timing and Leverage: An Analysis of Influence in Virginia’s Energy Future . University of Virginia, School of Engineering and Applied Science, BS (Bachelor of Science), 2026-08-07, https://doi.org/10.18130/zv4p-n448.
