Virginia Senate Considers Bill for Voluntary Virtual Power Plants with Appalachian Power
A Virginia House bill proposes a pilot program allowing Appalachian Power subscribers to install solar panels and sell excess electricity back to the grid. House Bill 1467 directs Appalachian Power to petition the State Corporation Commission. Homeowners would primarily power their homes and sell surplus energy during peak periods. The program, introduced by Del. Lily Franklin, aims to quickly increase energy availability amid rising demand, particularly from data centers. If approved, the pilot program could launch on July 1, 2027.
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Virginia House Bill 1467, now before the Senate, proposes a virtual power plant pilot program enabling Appalachian Power subscribers to install solar panels and sell excess electricity back to the grid. Homeowners would first power their residences, with surplus energy fed into the grid during peak demand.
Those purchasing battery storage units could retain some stored power. Del. Lily Franklin, the bill's sponsor, noted the program's speed and potential to relieve high energy bills.
However, upfront installation costs around $37,000 may deter some residents. If passed, the pilot program could launch on July 1, 2027.
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