Dominion Energy Virginia has submitted its fourth annual clean energy filing with the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC), outlining an ambitious plan to develop over a dozen new solar projects across the state.
If approved, these initiatives will contribute an impressive 772 megawatts (MW) of carbon-free electricity, sufficiently powering nearly 200,000 homes in Virginia at peak production.
The comprehensive proposal comprises ownership or acquisition of six solar projects, amassing 337 MW by Dominion Energy Virginia. Additionally, the proposal features 13 power purchase agreements (PPAs) totaling 435 MW with independently owned solar projects. The selection of PPAs was meticulously conducted through a competitive solicitation process.
Ed Baine, President of Dominion Energy Virginia, emphasized the significance of these projects in advancing their mission to deliver reliable, affordable, and increasingly clean energy to their customers. “They will also bring jobs and economic benefits to communities across the Commonwealth,” Baine added.
This proposal marks a substantial expansion of Dominion Energy’s solar portfolio, currently recognized as the second largest in the nation. If greenlit, the company will surpass an astounding 4,600 MW of solar capacity in Virginia, capable of providing energy for over 1.1 million homes at peak efficiency.
The construction phase of these projects is expected to create employment opportunities for more than 1,600 individuals and generate economic benefits exceeding $570 million throughout Virginia.
In terms of cost, the estimated expense of these projects is anticipated to incrementally add approximately $1.54 to the average residential customer’s monthly bill. It’s noteworthy that Dominion Energy Virginia’s current rates are 16 percent below the national average and an impressive 32 percent lower than the East Coast average.