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Happy Friday!
April 11, 2025
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Our team had a busy week on the roads, visiting with over a half dozen counties for discussions and public meetings for our mission on
Clean Energy the Right Way.
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Halifax ‘County of the Year’ Proves Progress Starts Locally
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This week, the Energy Right team travelled down to Halifax County to present the Board of Supervisors with its County of the Year Award from the Legislative Reception back in January. Halifax is a true energy leader and exemplifies the all-of-the-above strategy that the Commonwealth relies on to maintain grid stability and economic competitiveness. With over 800 MW of solar permitted—on top of the 800+ MW Clover Power Station and the 50 MW NOVEC Biomass facility—Halifax exports energy on a daily basis and is the beneficiary of the significant tax revenue that these energy facilities generate for the local community.
As Governor Youngkin reminded us at our January legislative reception, investment follows energy, and a secure and abundant energy supply is essential for long-term economic growth. Virginia needs more counties like Halifax shooting above their weight and leading on energy development with both vision and pragmatism. County residents will be the beneficiary of nearly $1,800,000 in annual revenue from solar energy projects over the next decade, which will help keep taxes low while supporting essential public services like education and infrastructure.
Halifax’s success in energy policies and landowners’ rights reflects a broader evolution in how Virginia approaches energy development: one that values local input, balanced planning, and long-term economic vision. As the Commonwealth faces rising demand and shifting energy needs, we hope other communities will begin to see more clearly how these initiatives are realistic, viable options.
Congratulations again to Halifax County, we are proud to recognize the incredible energy achievements and look forward to seeing its continued leadership in powering Virginia’s future!
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Shared Solar, Shared Success
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A new report from the Coalition for Community Solar Access highlights the economic and employment benefits tied to shared solar development. According to the analysis, a single 5-megawatt community solar installation can drive approximately $14 million in local economic activity and support around 100 jobs across construction, operations, and related industries. On a broader scale, the report estimates that scaling up to 1 gigawatt of community solar development could generate over 18,000 local jobs and inject $2.8 billion into state economies.
Community solar—referred to in Virginia as shared solar—offers an entry point for consumers traditionally left out of the rooftop solar market. Renters, residents with shaded roofs, and households facing financial or structural barriers to installation can subscribe to a nearby solar facility and receive credits on their electricity bills. This democratized approach not only brings cost savings to subscribers but also spreads the benefits of clean energy more equitably across regions.
As energy demand accelerates from numerous factors, community solar’s scalability and speed of deployment make it a compelling part of the solution. In states like Virginia where grid capacity and affordability are central concerns, shared solar projects can offer a practical option with easy-to-see benefits for the immediate community.
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From the Road
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Natural Tunnel State Park, Scott County
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Ben Wilson of the Energy Right team visited Scott County for a community discussion on solar, brownfield projects, and Southwest Virginia’s role in powering the Commonwealth’s energy future and was able to make a stop in the local state park. Perks of traveling the beautiful state!
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This week our team went to Caroline, Fauquier, Franklin, Halifax, Russell, Scott, and Southampton Counties on our mission for clean energy the Right Way.
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America First Energy Podcast
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This week we launched a new episode of the America First Energy Podcast! It was a full Energy Right team episode with Skyler Zunk taking time to interview Ben Wilson. Listen in as Ben breaks down the lay of the land in SWVA, talks about strong community bonds, and shares ideas for utilizing more forms of energy generation.
Tune in every other week as our guests bring us insights on energy, innovation and predictions for our energy future. Episodes can be found on Spotify, Youtube and wherever you listen to your podcasts.
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Appalachian Power proposes shared solar minimum bill
By Matt Busse, Cardinal News
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Appalachian Power’s shared solar program is taking shape, but its viability may hinge on one number: the minimum bill. The utility has proposed a $48.66 minimum monthly charge for fully subscribed residential customers, sparking debate among solar developers who warn it could undercut cost savings and limit participation. With no exemption for low-income customers, unlike Dominion’s program, stakeholders are urging regulators to fully account for solar’s grid benefits before finalizing the amount. A regulatory hearing is scheduled for late May.
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NEXT WEEK
We’ll be going to Brunswick, Nottoway, and more!
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Kaeser Compressors Inc. has installed solar power systems at its Virginia facilities, expected to generate over 1.2 million kWh of clean energy annually. This initiative aligns with Kaeser’s commitment to sustainability and reducing environmental impact. By harnessing solar energy, the company aims to lower operational costs and contribute to a cleaner energy future.
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