Virginia is poised for an exciting transformation in clean energy policy as newly empowered Democratic lawmakers prepare legislation that puts affordability and sustainability at the forefront. With the legislative session beginning January 14, state leaders are ready to tackle rising energy demand while keeping costs down for everyday Virginians.

Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger, who will be sworn in on January 17, made energy affordability a cornerstone of her successful campaign. Her administration plans to rejoin the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, a multi-state program focused on reducing carbon emissions that the previous administration had exited in 2023. But Spanberger's vision extends far beyond that single step.

The package of proposals being prepared by Democratic lawmakers demonstrates a thoughtful approach to Virginia's energy future. These bills would increase utilities' energy storage targets specifically to lower peak electricity prices, expand efficiency programs for low-income households, and establish a weatherization task force to help families reduce their energy consumption. Additional measures would streamline approval for small, portable solar systems and improve how the state forecasts energy demand.

"Affordability is a key word that has really carried her forward," noted Tony Smith, president and founder of Secure Solar Futures. "So she's going to look for ways to make electricity more affordable, and she's very much an advocate for clean energy."

The Ripple Effect

The timing of these initiatives couldn't be better. Virginia faces an immense increase in energy demand, driven largely by its position as the global leader in data centers. Rather than viewing this as a challenge, lawmakers are seizing it as an opportunity to build smarter infrastructure that benefits everyone.

Battery storage technology has emerged as a game-changer in this equation. Unlike traditional power generation, batteries offer exceptional flexibility and require less transmission infrastructure, making them both more efficient and more cost-effective. The Southern Environmental Law Center has been advocating for utilities to meet new demand by building out battery fleets, and lawmakers are listening.

Delegate Rip Sullivan and his colleagues have crafted an updated energy storage bill that reflects careful consideration and broad stakeholder input. The legislation includes consultations with local government leaders, fire safety experts, industry representatives, utility regulators, and environmental advocates. Importantly, the bill establishes minimum safety standards for energy storage projects and provides additional support for local communities reviewing such projects.

The American Clean Power Association praised the proposal enthusiastically. "Energy storage is one of the most effective tools Virginia can deploy to keep electricity affordable and reliable today and into the future," said Chief Advocacy Officer Frank Macchiarola. The organization notes that clear, ambitious policies will unlock thousands of megawatts of ready-to-build storage projects, creating jobs while ensuring residents benefit from a more reliable and resilient grid.

With Democrats holding 64 of 100 House seats and 21 of 40 Senate seats alongside the governor's office, Virginia has a genuine opportunity to advance thoughtful energy policy that balances environmental responsibility with economic practicality. The focus on affordability ensures that the transition to cleaner energy won't leave families behind, but rather will help them save money while building a more sustainable future for the Commonwealth.