Valley energy companies voice support for new state energy affordability initiative

Valley energy companies voice support for new state energy affordability initiative

HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) - Gov. Abigail Spanberger announced the first-in-the-nation energy affordability initiative on Monday. The ‘Switch Together’ program to is offered to Virginians to optionally switch to solar panels.

The goal is to reduce the price of solar installations and electricity costs.

Preston Knight, communications manager for Shenandoah Valley Electric Cooperative, said the cooperative encourages members, if interested, to explore the opportunity of solar panels.

“Any opportunity that exists for our members to tap into additional resources to explore solar and to have access to solar is something that we’re happy to work with them,” Knight said.

Knight said to talk to the cooperative early in the process so members understand what charges they should expect to see on their electric bill.

“Understanding the degree to which a bill might be lower is where the conversation is very important to have on the front end,” Knight said, “just to understand the charges that will still be levied or put on the bill, even with an installation.”

Knight said it is a case-by-case basis if a bill will be lowered. He encouraged continuous conversations with the cooperative to see if it will be lowered.

Knight said SVEC is happy to see other entities and government entities provide options for its members.

Ron Hisel, vice president of Tiger Solar said, in a statement provided to WHSV, this initiative is “good news for residential solar in Virginia.”

Hisel also states, “It puts affordability, energy choice, and protection from rising utility rates at the center of the conversation. That’s the right place to start.” Hisel stated how this can lower costs and companies compete for homeowner’s business.

“At Tiger Solar,” Hisel stated, “we believe the opportunity extends well beyond installing more solar panels. It’s about giving Virginia homeowners greater control over what they pay for power.”

The Switch Together campaign is open until October 15 and there are plans to expand to more Virginia communities, according to a press release.

For those wanting to learn more, you can visit the Switch Together website.

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