Gov. Northam unveils 2018 Virginia Energy Plan

Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam released Tuesday the 2018 Virginia Energy Plan, which provides a strategic vision for the state’s energy policy over the next 10 years.

The plan focuses on modernizing the electric grid and promoting new technologies. It also sets goals for renewable energy generation, energy efficiency and electric vehicles.

“The clean energy sector has the power to create new business opportunities, expand customer access to renewable energy, and spark the high-demand jobs of the 21st century,” Northam said. “Virginia can shift to a more modern electric grid that is reliable, affordable, resilient, and environmentally responsible—and the Commonwealth can lead this critical industry as a result. This plan sets an ambitious path forward for Virginia, and I am confident we will charge ahead towards progress over the course of my administration.”

The 2018 plan calls for a comprehensive grid modernization planning process to facilitate the implementation of the Grid Transformation and Security Act, which Northam signed into law earlier this year. It also sets targets of deploying 3,000 megawatts (MW) of solar and onshore wind by 2022 and 2,000 MW of offshore wind by 2028. It also sets a goal for Virginia’s utilities to collectively invest $115 million each year in energy efficiency programs.

“With its 2018 Energy Plan, the Commonwealth of Virginia has taken another important step to expand solar energy and promote innovative technologies over the next 10 years,” Sean Gallagher, vice president of state affairs for the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), said. “Governor Northam deserves credit for his leadership on clean energy and for establishing goals that are aligned with business and the public’s desire for energy that is affordable, creates jobs, protects the environment and grows Virginia’s economy. The solar industry will work with policy leaders, manufacturers and installers across Virginia to meet these benchmarks.”

Additional recommendations in the plan include developing new solar purchase options for corporate customers and small businesses and working with stakeholders to evaluate energy storage options.

The Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy (DMME) is responsible for developing the Virginia Energy Plan and submitting it to the Governor’s Office, the State Corporation Commission and the General Assembly.