The Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) has approved a group of new solar projects for Dominion Energy Virginia customers – nine new solar systems with a total capacity of nearly 500 MW. The projects are an important step in achieving the goals of the Virginia Clean Economy Act (VCEA) and Dominion Energy's goal of net zero emissions.
The VCEA demands that 16,100 MW solar or onshore wind be proposed to the SCC or put into operation by 2035. Around a third must be procured through power purchase agreements (PPAs).
“This is another important step in building a clean energy economy in Virginia,” said Ed Baine, president of Dominion Energy Virginia. “Our customers deserve reliable and affordable energy, and they also deserve a clean environment. These projects will help us deliver on that promise. “
Six of the nine new solar projects are PPAs that were selected through a competitive advertising process. Dominion Energy owns and will operate the other three projects that support approximately 750 jobs and provide more than $ 100 million in economic benefits in Virginia:
- Grassfield Solar: a 20 MW plant in the city of Chesapeake
- Norge Solar: a 20 MW facility in James City County
- Sycamore Solar: a 42 MW facility in Pittsylvania County
This fall, Dominion Energy will file its annual filing with the SCC to apply for approval to build or purchase yet another large group of solar, wind and energy storage projects. The company will be soliciting requests from developers to support these filings.
Photo: Ed Baine