Virginia Solar Guide 2026
Everything Virginia homeowners need to know: costs, incentives, net metering policy, and what makes this state unique for solar.
Key fact about Virginia solar
Virginia's Clean Economy Act mandates full retail net metering and sets aggressive renewable energy standards, creating a stable policy environment. Northern VA's high home values boost the financial case for solar.
Peak sun hours
4.7
hrs/day avg
Avg electricity rate
13.0¢
per kWh
Median install cost
$2.9/W
before incentives
Typical payback
11 yrs
8 kW system, avg usage
Typical 8 kW system in Virginia
Annual production
13,724 kWh
Year-1 savings
$1,784
System cost (est.)
$23,200
No federal tax credit — Section 25D expired December 31, 2025.
Virginia Net Metering Policy
Full retail net metering
Virginia mandates full retail net metering under the Clean Economy Act (2020). Dominion Energy and Appalachian Power must credit exports at retail. Annual true-up with net excess paid at avoided cost.
Virginia Solar Incentives
Available in addition to any utility rebates. Federal 25D credit is $0 for homeowner-owned systems from 2026.
- ✓Property tax exemption on added home value (localities may opt in)
- ✓Sales tax exemption
- ✓Dominion Energy solar programs
Top Utilities in Virginia
Interconnection timeline: 6–12 weeks
Calculate your Virginia solar economics
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