RICHMOND AND WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today at the inaugural Virginia Clean Energy Summit, the MD-DC-VA Solar Energy Industries Association (MDV-SEIA) applauded Governor Northam’s actions to make Virginia’s electricity grid 30% renewable by 2030 and carbon-free by 2050. The actions will transform the Commonwealth’s energy system.
The executive order is designed to transform the Commonwealth’s energy system by introducing statewide targets for the electricity system, a workforce development component and goals for the Northam Administration to lead by example.
“We applaud Governor Northam’s announcement to deploy at least 3,000 MW of solar and wind generation by 2022,” said David Murray, executive director of MDV-SEIA. “This is the most ambitious solar target in the Commonwealth’s history. Jobs in solar power provide high entry level wages and offer opportunity for Virginians from all backgrounds. We commend the Governor for recognizing the enormous potential of new solar has to create meaningful employment for thousands of Virginians over the next decade.”
“Progress on renewable energy can take many forms,” said Sean Gallagher, vice president of state affairs at the Solar Energy Industries Association. “The executive order in Virginia is one of many ways that governors can clear the way for solar deployment. Virginia leaders have worked hard to build the local solar market and we commend Governor Northam for his efforts to make Virginia a top solar state.”
Workforce development issues continue to be a top priority for MDV-SEIA. MDV-SEIA is currently working with Southside Virginia Community College on a training program for men and women eager to develop core skills related to solar installation.
“By prioritizing solar workforce development, Governor Northam will spur a generation of young men and women dedicated to pioneering change in our energy system,” said Rachel Smucker, Virginia policy manager at MDV-SEIA. “The Administration will also ensure that the benefits of clean energy are shared among Virginians from many walks of life.”
Governor Northam’s leadership shows us that it is possible to pursue solar and wind energy while developing economic opportunities for Virginians. MDV-SEIA looks forward to working with the Northam Administration and Virginia’s General Assembly during the coming legislative session.
About SEIA®:
Celebrating its 45th anniversary in 2019, the Solar Energy Industries Association® is the national trade association of the U.S. solar energy industry, which now employs more than 242,000 Americans. Through advocacy and education, SEIA® is building a strong solar industry to power America. SEIA works with its 1,000 member companies to build jobs and diversity, champion the use of cost-competitive solar in America, remove market barriers and educate the public on the benefits of solar energy. Visit SEIA online at www.seia.org.
About MDV-SEIA:
The Maryland D.C. Delaware Virginia Solar Energy Industries Association (MDV-SEIA) is the regional trade association representing companies and organizations in the solar industry, including 150+ members and 10,000 direct jobs across the region. As a local powerhouse of expertise, MDV-SEIA staff and membership shaped the policies that created and expanded the solar energy market in the DMV. For over three decades, MDV-SEIA has provided the leadership to deliver on policy formation, direct advocacy, regulatory intervention, market representation, networking, and education. Visit us online at mdvseia.org
Media Contacts:
Morgan Lyons, SEIA's Senior Communications Manager, [email protected] (202) 556-2872
David Murray, Executive Director, [email protected], (202) 780-9563
