Virginia is the first US state to roll out the Switch Together solar group-purchasing program statewide
The initiative aims to lower solar installation costs through competitive bidding without using state funds
Residents can enroll until October 15 to receive a no-obligation assessment for home solar
Virginia says it has become the first US state to make the existing Switch Together solar group-purchasing program available statewide. The voluntary initiative encourages group purchasing and competitive bidding to help residents lower long-term electricity bills.
Governor Abigail Spanberger announced the voluntary initiative, saying it is intended to help households reduce electricity costs, shield consumers from future utility rate increases, and support growing energy demand.
The program, Switch Together, uses a reverse auction in which pre-qualified installers compete to offer the lowest prices, allowing participants to receive discounted solar systems. Battery storage systems and, in some areas, heat pumps are also available at reduced prices.
According to the governor’s office, households can save an average of 23% on solar installation costs, or about $6,300 for a typical system. Citing estimates from the US Department of the Treasury, the state said this could translate into average annual electricity savings of around $2,200.
“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,” Spanberger said.
The initiative does not require direct state funding. The 2026 Switch Together Virginia campaign will remain open until October 15 and is currently available in more than 100 localities, with plans to expand statewide.
Residents who sign up will receive a free, no-obligation recommendation to determine whether solar is suitable for their property. Details of the program are available on the Switch Together website.
Josephus Allmond, Virginia’s Chief Energy Officer, said expanding access to home solar and battery storage supports the state's long-term energy goals while providing more affordable energy options.
The initiative is supported through a partnership between Solar United Neighbors, local governments and iChoosr, which manages the group-purchasing process. According to the organizers, more than 101,800 households have registered for Switch Together programs across the US.
Virginia is also among the handful of US states to have legalized plug-in solar or balcony solar systems (see Plug-In Solar Legalized In 5 US States).
