Discover the Power of Solar Energy in Virginia!
Welcome to Virginia, a state known for its rich history, diverse ecosystems, and a growing commitment to renewable energy. With a mix of sunny coastal plains and mountainous regions, Virginia offers a promising landscape for solar power generation. The state?s supportive policies, including incentives and rebates for solar installations, are fueling a surge in solar energy adoption among homeowners and businesses. This shift towards solar not only helps Virginians reduce their energy costs but also aligns with the state?s goals to combat climate change and promote sustainability. Learn how embracing solar power can illuminate your home, decrease your carbon footprint, and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable Virginia. Join us in harnessing the abundant energy of the sun and stepping into a brighter future in the Old Dominion State.
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Virginia State Solar Incentives
Multi-family shared solar program
In 2020, Virginia legislature allowed a multi-family shared solar program in Dominion Energy Virginia and Old Dominion Power territories, with system size limited to 3-5 MW.
Shared Solar Program
Virginia General Assembly authorizes shared solar program with max capacity of 150 MW, administered by licensed Subscriber Organizations.
Green Job Creation Tax Credit
Virginia offers a $500 tax credit for each new green job created with a salary of at least $50,000 from 2010 to 2025, up to 350 jobs.
Renewable Portfolio Standard
Virginia's Renewable Portfolio Standard requires Phase II Utilities to achieve 100% renewable power by 2045 and Phase I Utilities by 2050, with specific yearly targets.
VirginiaSAVES Green Community Loan Program
VirginiaSAVES Green Community Program offers low-cost financing for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects, administered by CleanSource Capital under Virginia DMME's guidance.
Local Option- Renewable Energy Machinery and Tools Property Tax Exemption
HB 1297 allows local governments to impose different property taxes on renewable energy machinery, not exceeding general machinery rates.
Small Business & Non-Profit Loan Program
Virginia promotes renewable energy among small businesses and nonprofits through legislation, aiding in a greener economy and reduced carbon footprint.
Commercial Solar Property Tax Exemption
Virginia offers 100% property tax exemption for certain solar facilities and 80% for others, excluding the land they're located on.
City of Danville - Net Metering
Renewable fuel generators under 25 kW must notify utility 30 days prior to interconnection. Generators exceeding 25 kW have a 60-day requirement. Conditions for operation include utility inspection and certifications.
Energy Project and Equipment Financing
The Virginia Resources Authority provides financial support for renewable energy projects among local governments, fostering a sustainable and energy-efficient future for Virginia.
Mandatory Utility Green Power Option
Virginia's Senate Bill 1416 allows consumers to opt for 100% renewable energy, promoting green power and environmental responsibility.
Virginia - Solar Rights
Virginia law allows homeowners to install solar energy devices, with community associations permitted to impose reasonable restrictions. Unreasonable restrictions are those increasing costs or reducing energy production.
Arlington County - Green Building Incentive Program
Arlington County's updated Community Energy Plan aims for carbon neutrality by 2050, focusing on reducing building emissions. The Green Building Incentive Policy encourages sustainable new constructions.
Virginia Solar Easements
Virginia's Solar Easements Act of 1978 allows property owners to create legally binding solar easements to ensure proper access to sunlight.
Interconnection Standards
Virginia has distinct interconnection standards for net-metered systems and non-net-metered systems with different rules and regulations for each, including capacity limits and insurance requirements.
Local Option - Residential Property Tax Exemption for Solar
Virginia offers tax exemptions for non-commercial solar and recycling equipment, with some cities and counties also offering exemptions. The law applies from January 1, 2023.
Net Metering
Dominion Energy Virginia's net energy metering rules are being revised. Virginia offers net metering to customers generating power with renewable sources, up to certain capacity limits. Any excess generation can be carried forward or sold to the utility.
Federal Solar Incentives
USDA - Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Grants
REAP, administered by USDA, provides financial aid to small rural businesses and agricultural producers for sustainable energy projects. Grants cover 25% of the project cost, up to $25 million.
Interconnection Standards for Small Generators
New FERC order mandates small generators under 20 MW to maintain operation during abnormal frequency and voltage events, enhancing interconnection efficiency.
USDA - Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Loan Guarantees
The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) supports agricultural producers and rural businesses in the US by providing financial aid for renewable energy projects and energy efficiency improvements.
Clean Renewable Energy Bonds (CREBs)
Clean Renewable Energy Bonds (CREBs) were used by public entities to fund renewable energy projects. They were repealed in 2017.
Qualified Energy Conservation Bonds (QECBs)
Qualified Energy Conservation Bonds (QECBs) financed energy projects by local governments. Discontinued in 2018, they offered tax credits as interest to bondholders.
Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs - Funding Opportunities
The DOE's Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs aids tribes in attaining energy self-sufficiency and economic growth through renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies.
Fannie Mae Green Financing – Loan Program
Fannie Mae's Green Financing offers loans for multifamily properties aiming for energy and water efficiency improvements. Eligible properties can access favorable rates and additional loan proceeds.
Energy-Efficient Mortgages
Energy efficient mortgages (EEM) allow homeowners to finance energy-saving renovations or purchase new energy-efficient homes. These loans, insured by the U.S. government, aim to promote energy efficiency.
Green Power Purchasing Goal for Federal Government
The Energy Policy Act of 2005 set a goal for federal buildings to use 7.5% renewable energy by 2013. This target was increased to 30% by 2025 but later rescinded in 2018.
USDA - High Energy Cost Grant Program
USDA's grant program, enhancing energy generation in rural areas, concluded its latest application period on July 6, 2021. Updates can be found on the program website.
Residential Energy Conservation Subsidy Exclusion (Personal)
US law exempts energy conservation subsidies provided by utilities from taxation but requires adjustments for federal tax credits. IRS guidance on solar rebates is unclear.
Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit
H.R. 5376 extends tax credit for energy storage systems and excludes biomass heaters, with credit amounts varying by technology type and installation date.
U.S. Department of Energy - Loan Guarantee Program
The Inflation Reduction Act has allocated $11.7 billion to the LPO for new loans, boosting loan authority by $100 billion, and setting up the Energy Infrastructure Reinvestment Program.
Business Energy Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 updates the federal Business Energy Investment Tax Credit, introducing new eligibility criteria, bonus credits, and transitions the tax credit to a new section.
Renewable Electricity Production Tax Credit (PTC)
The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 introduces changes to the federal renewable electricity production tax credit, introducing new bonus credits and eligibility criteria.
Residential Energy Conservation Subsidy Exclusion (Corporate)
U.S. energy conservation subsidies provided by public utilities are tax-exempt, but this does not extend to certain electricity-generating systems. Tax credits can't be claimed for unsubsidized expenses.
Modified Accelerated Cost-Recovery System (MACRS)
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 allows 100% depreciation for qualified assets, impacting renewable energy technologies. MACRS classifies these technologies for depreciation purposes.
Energy and Emissions Goals and Standards for Federal Government
President Biden's Executive Order 14057 sets ambitious sustainability goals for the US, including 100% carbon-free electricity by 2030 and a fully zero-emission federal fleet by 2035.
