Plug-in solar
Legal from Jan 1, 2027 Not yet, but soon. Virginia signed HB 395 and SB 250 on Apr 22, 2026; it takes effect Jan 1, 2027. The full rules for Virginia.
A typical 800 W kit on a south-facing balcony railing would make about 822 kWh a year here, worth roughly $123 at Virginia’s current price if you use 85% of it at home.
What everyday things cost in Virginia
| Space heater on high, one hour | $0.26 | Heater cost calculator |
|---|---|---|
| Charging an EV at home, per 100 miles | $5.71 | EV charging calculator |
| 100 W of always-on load, per year | $155 | Standby calculator |
| Swapping 15 old bulbs for LEDs, per year | $148 | LED calculator |
Home energy rebates
Virginia wasn’t listed as taking applications for the federal Home Energy Rebate programs (HOMES or HEAR) in an Oct 12, 2026 review of state program pages. Programs open and close as money runs out, so check your state energy office. The federal tax credits for efficiency upgrades and home solar ended after 2025. What’s left in 2026.
Gas lawn equipment
Places in Virginia with rules on gas leaf blowers: Alexandria; Arlington County. All local bans.
Clotheslines
Virginia’s solar-access law likely protects clotheslines from HOA bans, though the law doesn’t name them. Right-to-dry laws.