Virginia passes historic commitment to ramping up renewables

100 percent clean electricity by 2045

Environment Virginia

RICHMOND, Va. — Virginia is poised to take a leadership role in the transition to renewable energy as it becomes the seventh U.S. state to pass a law that commits to providing 100 percent carbon-free electricity to its citizens by midcentury. The Virginia Senate passed the Virginia Clean Economy Act today, sending the bill to Gov. Ralph Northam’s desk for final approval. 

The act removes barriers to solar and wind and commits the commonwealth to ramping up renewable energy, which currently makes up just 7 percent of Virginia’s electricity, to at least 30 percent by 2030. In addition, it requires the retirement of fossil fuel plants and establishes a mandatory target for utilities to reach 100 percent clean electricity by 2045. 

In response to today’s vote, Elly Boehmer, Environment Virginia’s state director, released the following statement:

“It’s a proud day to be a Virginian. For the first time in more than two decades, Virginia’s General Assembly has stepped up to make climate and our health a top priority, putting this commonwealth among the frontrunners in the shift toward clean and renewable energy. By signing the Virginia Clean Economy Act into law, Gov. Northam will put us on a path toward a future powered by truly clean and renewable energy sources. We look forward to continuing to work with the General Assembly and governor to turn this vision into a reality.”