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When Democrats last controlled the legislature in 2020, they passed a wave of Green New Deal–style mandates that we’re still paying for today. Governor Youngkin’s administration has rolled back some of the worst provisions, but many remain—and they continue to drive up your electric bills. If Democrats win this November, they’ve made clear they intend to double down.
The biggest culprit is the Virginia Clean Economy Act, which requires an ever-increasing percentage of our electricity to come from wind and solar—reaching 100% by 2050.
These are costly projects that utilities are forced to build, and those costs are passed directly to ratepayers. Combined with growing demand for power in our technology-driven world, Virginians are paying more every month just to keep the lights on.
Virginia’s problem is compounded by the fact that we are one of the largest energy importers in
the nation. Because the Clean Economy Act forced the closure of coal and natural gas plants,
we no longer produce enough energy ourselves. Instead, we buy it from states that still rely on
those sources—at a premium. That cost, once again, falls on you. And if Democrats regain control, it will only worsen. Their gubernatorial candidate, Abigail Spanberger, has even pledged to ban oil and gas plants entirely.
Beyond affordability, these mandates also threaten local authority and rural communities. There has been legislation introduced in the General Assembly that sought to strip local governments of their ability to approve or deny large-scale solar projects—transferring that authority to Richmond bureaucrats. The proposal ultimately failed to pass, but Democrats have indicated they intend to bring it back. As Senator VanValkenburg, the bill’s patron, stated, “There’s no way we’re going to meet our clean energy goals (without this bill).” Localities should have the final say in whether solar development fits their needs—not unelected state agencies with little understanding of rural life.
Perhaps the most serious concern is energy reliability. The Clean Economy Act’s aggressive phase-out of coal and natural gas in favor of intermittent renewables jeopardizes grid stability. Solar and wind cannot provide consistent, around-the-clock power—especially during peak
demand or severe weather. This leaves Virginia vulnerable to blackouts and dependent on out-
of-state producers who often rely on fossil fuels anyway. That’s not energy independence; it’s energy insecurity.
The better path forward is an all-of-the-above energy strategy. Solar and wind can play a role, but they must be balanced with reliable sources like natural gas and nuclear. Under Governor Youngkin, Virginia has already begun work on a new nuclear facility that will strengthen our grid and provide clean, affordable energy for decades. Lieutenant Governor Winsome Sears has championed this balanced approach, and her leadership will ensure Virginia continues down a
path of innovation—not ideological extremism.
The choice this November couldn’t be clearer: do we continue building a future based on affordability, reliability, and common sense—or return to costly Green New Deal mandates that weaken our economy and power grid? Together, we can keep Virginia strong, competitive, and energy-secure for generations to come.
My staff and I are always here to assist you with any issues or concerns. Please don't hesitate to reach out if we can be of service. You can reach us at 434.374.5129 or by email at [email protected]
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