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HB 893

Electric utility integrated resource planning; energy storage resources.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Rip Sullivan

Virginia law now requires electric utilities to evaluate and incorporate energy storage resources into their long-term integrated resource planning and regulatory filings.

Approved by Governor-Chapter 693 (effective 7/1/2026)
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Bill Summary · HB 893

Legislative bill overview

HB 893 modifies Virginia's electric utility integrated resource planning requirements to mandate consideration and inclusion of energy storage resources in utility planning processes. The bill appears to require utilities to evaluate battery storage, thermal storage, and other energy storage technologies as part of their long-term resource portfolios submitted to state regulators.

Why is this important

Energy storage is increasingly critical for grid reliability as Virginia transitions toward renewable energy sources that produce power intermittently. By requiring utilities to formally evaluate storage options, the bill could lower electricity costs, improve grid stability, and accelerate adoption of renewable energy by addressing the mismatch between when solar and wind generate power and when consumers need it.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost burden on ratepayers: Mandating storage investment may increase utility capital expenses that ultimately get passed to consumers through rate increases, particularly affecting low-income households
  • Technology feasibility and timeline: Requiring storage inclusion in integrated resource plans may conflict with current battery technology costs, supply chain limitations, or deployment timelines that utilities consider realistic
  • Regulatory clarity: The bill may lack sufficient specificity on how utilities should value, prioritize, or cost-justify storage versus other grid modernization investments, creating implementation uncertainty

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

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