Dominion Energy Virginia looks to launch nearly 2 dozen solar, storage projects in state

Dominion Energy Virginia has proposed nearly two dozen new solar and energy storage projects in the state, which, if approved, would generate more than 800 megawatts (MW) of electricity.

The plans were submitted to the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) this week in the company’s annual clean energy filing.

The proposal includes 10 solar and energy storage projects, owned and operated by Dominion Energy Virginia, that total nearly 500 MW of energy generation. It also includes power purchase agreements (PPAs) with 13 solar and energy storage projects, totaling more than 300 megawatts of power. These PPA projects, selected through a competitive solicitation process, are owned by independent developers.

“These projects are another big step in delivering clean, affordable and reliable energy to our customers,” Ed Baine, president of Dominion Energy Virginia, said. “The clean energy transition is bringing jobs and economic opportunity to communities across Virginia, and it’s reducing fuel costs for our customers. That’s a win-win for our customers and the communities we serve.”

These projects will support nearly 4,800 construction jobs and will generate more than $920 million in economic benefits for the state. However, they first require approval from the SCC, as well as the various local and state permits that are required. But if all goes well, the projects are expected to be completed between 2023 and 2025.

The projects are expected to add approximately $0.38 to the average residential customer’s monthly bill. However, the company points out that its rates remain below the national, mid-Atlantic and East Coast averages. And over time, as the company develops more renewables, which require no fuel, customers will see the benefit of lower fuel costs on their monthly bills.

Further, these proposed projects will help meet the requirements laid out in the Virginia Clean Economy Act, which requires Dominion Energy Virginia to generate 100 percent of its electricity from carbon-free sources by 2045.