Going solar is a win-win. Not only can installing a solar power system save you thousands of dollars every year, it also allows you to pat yourself on the back for reducing your reliance on fossil fuels.
Over the past few years, an increasing number of homeowners have made the switch. In fact, 7% of homes in the U.S. currently have solar, a trend driven largely by falling installation costs.
Still, there’s no denying that making the move toward solar requires a significant investment, which is why it’s natural to wonder, ‘Can you get solar panels for free in Virginia?’ Here’s what you should know.
Fact check: Are solar panels available for free?
With recent advances in solar energy technology, more Americans have become interested in harnessing the power of the sun’s rays. These advancements have brought numerous benefits, but they have also attracted scammers who try to take advantage of the rising popularity of solar power. In fact, some companies claim to provide solar panels for free. However, it’s critical to understand that currently, the federal government doesn’t have any programs that provide such a thing.
Furthermore, there are no government rules or requirements for companies to provide solar panels for free to their clients. Customers should also be careful about whom they share their personal data with and where. Some organizations may try to collect your information in exchange for offering their quote, but some of these companies are neither licensed nor certified.
Are there any solar incentives available in Virginia?
Even though you can’t get solar panels for free in Virginia, that doesn’t mean you have to break the bank to make the change. As a Virginia homeowner, you have access to many great incentives that can significantly bring down the costs of switching to solar power.
What are the best programs to look out for? Here’s an overview.
Solar renewable energy credits (SRECs)
One of the best options for maximizing your solar investment is to take advantage of solar renewable energy credits. Following the Virginia Clean Economy Act (VCEA), you can earn one SREC for each megawatt-hour your panels produce, which you can later sell to power companies. The amount you can earn from this program depends on market demand, but typically, you should get around $22.50 per SREC.
Solar property tax exemption
Although solar panels typically raise a home’s value, you won’t have to pay higher property taxes. That’s because owning a property in Virginia with a solar system also makes you eligible for property tax exemptions. Navigating the rules can be a bit confusing, but these are the main things you should know:
- Years 1–5: 80% of your solar system’s value is exempt.
- Years 6–10: 70% of the value is exempt.
- After year 10 (for the rest of the system’s life): 60% of the value is exempt.
Virginia net metering programs
If you’re looking for ways to make the most of your investment, you should consider connecting your solar panel system to the grid. This would allow you to benefit from net metering, which means you’d earn credits for the excess solar energy you produce. Consequently, even if the sun is not shining, you’ll be able to cover your electric bills with the credits you’ve already earned.
However, there are some aspects to note. To participate in the program, your solar panel system must be under 25kW, and it can’t exceed the amount of electricity you typically use in a year (this is assessed based on your past bills).
Likewise, net metering is not available to everyone. The state has set a limit on how many people can participate, and the incentive works on a first-come, first-served basis.
Is it worth going solar in Virginia?
It’s no secret that switching to solar is more viable in some states than in others. Although it would be great for Virginia to offer more upfront rebates for solar installation, it’s generally a good place to make the investment.
However, keep in mind that switching to solar only makes sense if you’re planning on staying on your property long-term. The average payback period for most solar projects is around 10 years (which is similar to what you’d see in other parts of the country).
Recap: Can you get solar panels for free in Virginia?
It’s clearer than ever – solar energy is the future. As much as we might wish, it’s not possible, it’s not possible to get solar panels for free in Virginia. Nevertheless, solar systems have become significantly less expensive over the years. So, if you’re thinking about making the move, now is the best time to do it! Get in touch with our team at American Home Contractors to discuss the best options for your home.
Fact Checked by Lita Legzdina on 09/10/2025