by: Alex Roever
Posted: Jul 13, 2026 / 02:15 PM EDT
Updated: Jul 13, 2026 / 02:16 PM EDT
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RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Gov. Abigail Spanberger (D) announced a first-in-the-nation initiative on energy affordability by offering a program to lower prices for households with solar installations.
On Monday, July 13, Spanberger announced in a press release that Virginia will be the first state in the U.S. to offer residents the chance to be a part of Switch Together, an optional solar panel group purchasing initiative. A spokesperson said the initiative was created to increase energy generation, protect families against utility rate hikes in the future and make energy affordable across the commonwealth.
According to the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Switch Together can lower utility bills and help families save an average of 23% on home and business solar installations, which is about $6,300 on a typical system. As well as estimated to save the average household around $2,200 a year on electricity costs.
The program was first offered to select locations across the state and country, helping thousands of families save money, with select Virginians paying $0 for electricity on their monthly utility bill, per the release.
This initiative is able to achieve these savings by leveraging the power of group purchasing and does not require direct expenditure of state funds.
“We are taking real, practical action to address high energy costs for Virginians, protect families from future rate hikes, and meet rising energy demand,” Spanberger said. “Virginia families have already seen thousands of dollars in savings from Switch Together, and now, we are empowering more Virginians with the chance to access those same savings. By using the power of the free market, leveraging the Commonwealth’s buying power, and cutting out middlemen, we are creating significant discounts for families and businesses.”
According to the release, Switch Together has a reverse auction that allows participants to compete to offer competitive prices with qualified installers, offering participants a discount on high-quality solar installation.
Participants of the initiative can also receive a discount on battery storage systems and, in most locations, heat pumps. Additionally, with group discounts, residents can also qualify for other incentives to assist with lowering their costs.
Switch Together is supported through a partnership with the national nonprofit Solar United Neighbors and local governments, along with multiple cities and counties across the nation.
“Expanding access to home solar and storage is a core part of delivering more affordable, homegrown energy options for Virginia’s families and achieving our state’s long-term energy goals,” said Chief Energy Officer Josephus Allmond. “I am glad to be partnering with Solar United Neighbors to help us reach more households across the state.”
“If you’ve ever thought about going solar, now’s a great time to do it. And by going solar through Switch Together, you’ll have expert support every step of the way,” said Brandon Praileau, Virginia Program Director for Solar United Neighbors. “We’re excited to be working with Governor Spanberger to help bring access to lower-cost solar to more families across the Commonwealth and help Virginians save money.”
The 2026 Switch Together Virginia campaign is open through Oct. 15 and is open at over 100 locations across the commonwealth, with plans to expand to every area.
To learn more about Switch Together, visit its website.
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