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Sources last reviewed 2026-11-01

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Virginia plug-in solar status

Enacted — effective laterEnacted — effective later
Where Virginia stands: Virginia enacted HB 395/SB 250. The main consumer-facing plug-in-solar provisions, including the interconnection exemption and certain landlord protections, take effect January 1, 2027.

The key facts

Bill or law
SB 250, HB 395
Size limit
1200 watts
Enacted
Enactment date not verified
Effective date / scope
2027-01-01

Timing and implementation

  • The main consumer-facing interconnection exemption and certain landlord protections begin January 1, 2027; implementation milestones occur in 2026.

The law includes implementation milestones in 2026, but that does not make the full consumer framework operative before January 1, 2027.

Before installation, notify the utility on the commission's form. The utility has 15 days to check accuracy and completeness and request corrections. If it does not respond in that period, the notice requirement is deemed satisfied. Prior approval is not required for a compliant device, but notice is mandatory.

Installation checklist for Virginia

  • Wait for the main January 1, 2027 exemption and confirm the final commission form and implementation guidance.
  • Use a qualifying NRTL-certified device within the 1,200 W per customer or residential-unit limit, with outage protection and applicable code compliance.
  • Submit the commission notification form to the utility before installation; allow the 15-day review and resolve any deficiencies. No response within 15 days satisfies the notice requirement.
  • Check local permits, safe mounting, and applicable tenant or HOA rules.

Before you buy in Virginia

This page is informational research, not legal advice — and it can fall out of date quickly. Before installing anything, confirm the current law and its start date, any size limit, your local building and fire codes, your utility’s requirements, that the kit is certified as a complete system, your landlord or homeowners association (HOA) rules, a safe way to mount it, and the maker’s instructions.

Virginia plug-in solar FAQ

Does Virginia require utility approval or notification?

From January 1, 2027, a compliant device does not require prior utility approval, but advance notification on the commission form is mandatory. The utility has 15 days to review and seek corrections; if it does not respond within that period, the notice requirement is deemed satisfied.

Estimate your savings in Virginia

Use the calculator to get a rough idea. For a truer number, swap the national average electricity price for your own rate (it’s on your bill), and remember that surplus power you send back may earn nothing unless your state and utility specifically pay for it.

Estimated monthly savings$12
Electricity made per year794 kWh
Time to pay off8.0 years

A planning estimate, not a promise. It doesn’t check whether plug-in solar is legal where you live, whether a kit is certified, whether your outlet or mount is suitable, or whether your utility pays for surplus power.

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