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HB 920

Electric utilities; development of offshore wind capacity.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Alfonso Lopez

Authorizes Virginia electric utilities to develop offshore wind capacity; subcommittee voted to remove from consideration January 29, 2026.

Subcommittee recommends striking from the docket (10-Y 0-N)
0
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Bill Summary · HB 920

Legislative bill overview

HB 920 would authorize Virginia's electric utilities to develop offshore wind energy capacity, likely establishing regulatory frameworks and financial mechanisms for utility investment in wind generation off the state's coast. The bill was prefiled in January 2026 but a subcommittee voted overwhelmingly to strike it from the docket on January 29, 2026.

Why is this important

Offshore wind represents a potential significant renewable energy source for Virginia, which could diversify the state's energy portfolio, reduce carbon emissions, and create economic development opportunities. The bill's fate affects whether utilities can invest in this emerging technology and how costs and benefits are distributed among ratepayers and stakeholders.

Potential points of contention

  • Ratepayer impact: Whether utility investment in offshore wind increases electricity rates and how costs are allocated between customer classes
  • Regulatory authority: The scope of authority granted to utilities versus state regulators in development decisions and cost recovery
  • Environmental and coastal concerns: Impacts on marine ecosystems, fishing industries, and coastal property values that may have generated opposition leading to the subcommittee's 10-0 strike recommendation

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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