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Bill

HB 809

Electric utilities; shared solar programs, Phase I Utility.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Nadarius Clark and 2 co-sponsors

Virginia establishes utility-operated shared solar programs enabling multiple customers to collectively own solar installations and receive proportional bill credits, expanding renewable energy access beyond individual rooftop feasibility.

Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0673)
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Bill Summary · HB 809

Legislative bill overview

HB 809 establishes a Phase I shared solar program framework for Virginia's electric utilities, allowing multiple customers to jointly own or subscribe to solar installations and receive credits on their electricity bills for their proportional share of generation. The bill creates a regulatory pathway for utilities to develop and operate these community solar programs as an alternative to individual rooftop solar installations.

Why is this important

Shared solar removes barriers for renters, low-income households, and properties unsuitable for rooftop installations to access solar energy benefits. This expands renewable energy adoption beyond the roughly 3-5% of Virginia households that can install traditional solar, potentially accelerating the state's clean energy transition while distributing economic benefits more broadly across the customer base.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost allocation: How program costs are distributed among participating and non-participating customers, and whether utility shareholders or ratepayers bear development expenses
  • Utility financial incentives: Whether utilities have sufficient motivation to promote shared solar when it reduces their traditional electricity sales, and how regulatory mechanisms ensure program viability
  • Subscriber accessibility: Whether program design adequately prioritizes low-to-moderate income households or risks becoming predominantly accessible to wealthier participants who can afford upfront costs

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

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