Understanding the Virginia SREC Program

Virginia's Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) are a key component of the state's efforts to promote solar energy and meet renewable energy goals.

Last updated
October 14, 2024
Author: Matt from Currents
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The Virginia SREC program was established under the Virginia Clean Economy Act (VCEA) in 2020. This act mandates a Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) for Dominion Energy and Appalachian Power Company, requiring a portion of their energy to come from distributed solar generation.

SRECs are created for every megawatt-hour (MWh) of solar power produced, and these credits can be sold to utilities to help them meet their RPS obligations.

SRECs serve as a financial incentive for solar system owners, allowing them to earn additional revenue by selling the credits. This not only helps offset the costs of solar installations but also encourages more individuals and businesses to invest in solar energy.

Factors Influencing Virginia SREC Prices

Virginia SREC prices are subject to fluctuations based on several factors, including supply and demand dynamics, policy changes, and market conditions.

The Virginia Clean Economy Act has set specific targets for solar energy, which influence the demand for SRECs. Utilities are required to purchase SRECs to avoid penalties, creating a market demand for these credits.

The price of SRECs in Virginia has varied over time.

As of July 2024, prices ranged from $25 to $42 per SREC, with a price ceiling of $75 for residential and small commercial systems. The value of SRECs can be impacted by the number of solar installations, state-specific regulations, and the overall demand for renewable energy.

Benefits of Participating in the Virginia SREC Market

Participating in the Virginia SREC market offers several benefits for solar system owners.

By selling SRECs, solar owners can generate additional income, which can help reduce the payback period for their solar investment. This financial incentive makes solar energy more accessible and appealing to a wider audience.

Moreover, the Virginia SREC program supports the state's renewable energy goals by encouraging the development of solar projects. The program fosters job creation, economic growth, and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable future for Virginia.

Navigating the Virginia SREC Market

To maximize the benefits of the Virginia SREC program, solar owners should consider working with SREC broker and aggregator, Currents.

Currents can help navigate the market, providing insights into current pricing trends and helping secure the best prices for SRECs.

Conclusion

The Virginia SREC program is a vital part of the state's renewable energy strategy, providing financial incentives for solar system owners and supporting the transition to clean energy. By understanding the dynamics of the SREC market and leveraging available resources, individuals and businesses in Virginia can contribute to a sustainable future while benefiting economically.

As the market continues to evolve, staying informed and proactive will be key to maximizing the advantages of participating in the Virginia SREC program.

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