Solar in Virginia
Key Solar Metrics
15.3¢/kWh
5.1 peak sun hours
956 kWh/kW
Net Metering
4 active programs
Virginia Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs)
Mixed
Major Utilities
Solar Landscape in Virginia
Virginia's electricity market includes both investor-owned utilities and cooperative/municipal providers. Utility-specific solar programs vary by provider. Residential customers should check with their specific utility provider for available solar incentive programs, interconnection requirements, and export credit rates.
Permitting
Virginia follows local jurisdiction permitting for residential solar installations. Permitting requirements and timelines vary by county and municipality. Homeowners should contact their local building department for specific permit requirements, fees, and inspection schedules. Some jurisdictions in Virginia have adopted streamlined solar permitting processes to reduce installation timelines.
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Solar Incentives & Rebates
State Programs
Virginia Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs)
VA SRECs at approximately $22.50/MWh (~$0.023/kWh). Typical residential system earns $180-$270/year.
Virginia Net Metering (Full Retail)
Full retail rate net metering for residential systems up to 25 kW. Annual rollover with compensation at avoided cost for excess at year-end.
Virginia Property Tax Exemption for Solar
Local option property tax exemption for solar energy equipment. Many VA localities have adopted this exemption.
Virginia Solar Access Rights
Virginia Code 67-701 through 67-703 protects solar access through easements and prohibits HOAs from banning solar.
Virginia Net Metering
- Policy Type
- Net Metering
- Credit Type
- Full Retail Rate
- System Size Cap
- 25 kW
- Annual Credit Rollover
- Yes
- Effective Date
- April 1, 2020
Run the Numbers for Virginia
Solar in Virginia costs $2.73–$3.51 per watt
National average: $3.36/W
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