Governor Abigail Spanberger unveiled the 2026 Virginia Energy Plan on Thursday, laying out pathways to deliver affordable, reliable energy to families, protect the Commonwealth's natural resources, and power Virginia's next decade of economic growth while keeping the state on track for a net-zero power sector by 2050.
For the first time in developing a Virginia Energy Plan, public input — more than 3,000 public survey responses, six regional meetings, a public town hall, and 20 industry-specific listening sessions — was paired with rigorous energy-system modeling and analysis. The approach evaluated multiple demand scenarios and policy pathways, giving Virginians an evidence-based understanding of the costs and tradeoffs of different policy choices. Modeling shows Virginia has multiple pathways to a net-zero power system by 2050 while providing reliable and affordable power.
"Virginians have been clear about what they need from their energy system," said Governor Abigail Spanberger. "Energy should be reliable, with enough power to support Virginia's growth. It should be clean and built in a way that protects the health of our communities and the natural resources around us. It should be local, so the jobs and benefits of our energy growth stay here in Virginia. And it must be affordable."
The plan presents practical pathways to deliver near-term affordability while preparing the energy system for long-term growth, including accelerating deployment of the lowest cost, fastest, and cleanest energy solutions; ensuring data center growth advances Virginia's energy goals; aligning utility incentives with affordable energy outcomes; advancing clean firm resources; reducing emissions from and better leveraging gas infrastructure; driving clean transportation; and building a homegrown workforce and supply chain.
"This plan sets a vision for building the innovative energy infrastructure and skilled workforce Virginia's economic growth will require, while preserving the flexibility to respond as demand, technology, and investment change," said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Carrie Chenery.
"The Energy Plan finds that Virginia has multiple pathways towards net zero by 2050 by pursuing a Clean-First, Least-Cost approach," said Chief Energy Officer Josephus Allmond. "As we build the energy system to support the growth we are anticipating, cleaner air and healthier communities will be part of how we measure success."
Virginia updates the Energy Plan every four years as required by state law. The plan does not set utility rates or approve individual projects, but guides the policies, investments, and coordination that shape those decisions.
"This plan is about delivering real results for Virginians: affordable and reliable energy, a healthier environment, and greater economic opportunity," said Virginia Energy Director Vince Maiden.