Solar, Sourcing Renewables, Wind  -  October 21, 2019

Virginia signs largest deal to power state buildings with RE

The Commonwealth of Virginia’s state-owned buildings, universities and facilities will soon be powered by clean energy under an agreement signed by Gov. Ralph Northam on Friday in the largest procurement of renewable energy by a state to date.

The agreement was made between the Commonwealth and Dominion Energy. The utility will provide 420 MW of solar and wind energy, which will account for 45% of the state government’s annual energy use.

"My administration is committed to combating climate change and advancing the clean energy economy," Northam said in a statement. "It has been a historic month for renewable energy in the Commonwealth – with this landmark contract, we are continuing to lead by example in cutting emissions, investing in clean energy, and ensuring a healthy world for future generations."

The projects that will be used in the supply to the state government include Apex Clean Energy's 75-megawatt Rocky Forge Wind, which is Virginia's first-ever on-short wind site.  The agreement represents the purchase of the full capacity of the project, which will become Virginia’s first operating onshore wind project when it begins commercial operations, expected in 2021.

Solar energy projects for the agreement include Belcher Solar site, Bedford Solar site, Walnut Solar site and a fourth solar project yet to be named. Dominion stated that the projects will have no impact on Virginia customer rates.

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