Governor Abigail Spanberger of Virginia announced on the 13th that the state will officially launch a solar equipment collective purchasing program named "Switch Together." This makes Virginia the first state in the nation to introduce a solar collective purchasing initiative of this statewide scale, specifically designed to lower household energy costs.
According to a statement released by the Virginia state government, the program leverages competitive mechanisms and the economies of scale from collective purchasing. It is projected to help local residents and businesses save an average of 23% on the cost of installing solar systems. This translates to a reduction of approximately $6,300 per typical system, with the average household expected to save about $2,200 annually on electricity bills as a result. The initiative was previously piloted in select areas, where it helped thousands of families achieve significant reductions in their energy expenditures. Some participants even saw their monthly electricity bills drop to zero.
Governor Spanberger emphasized that this initiative, without directly tapping into state fiscal funds, utilizes free market competition and local collective buying power. By organizing qualified installers for reverse auctions, it effectively eliminates intermediary markups, ensuring participants can access high-quality, low-cost solar installation and accompanying battery storage solutions. Spanberger noted that this move is a practical measure to address rising energy costs, protect families from the impact of escalating electricity prices, and meet growing power demand.
Currently, the program has garnered support from the national nonprofit organization Solar United Neighbors and multiple local governments within Virginia. Virginia's Chief Energy Officer, Josephus Allmond, stated that expanding the adoption of residential solar and storage equipment is a core component of providing more affordable local energy choices for Virginia families and achieving the state's long-term energy strategy goals.
It is reported that the 2026 "Switch Together" promotion campaign in Virginia will run until October 15th. The program already covers over 100 areas across the state, with plans to gradually expand to all communities statewide.