Subcommittee reports HB562 to let electric cooperatives run virtual power plant programs

Delegate Reid presented HB562 as a permissive measure to allow electric cooperatives to operate virtual power plants that aggregate distributed energy resources — such as solar, batteries and smart thermostats — to provide capacity to the grid (Delegate Reid). The bill requires cooperative governing board approval and subjects programs to SCC review at general rate proceedings.

Representatives of the Virginia, Maryland and Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives and Old Dominion Electric Cooperative testified in support, saying the bill preserves flexibility for different cooperatives to implement programs that fit their members. Environmental groups and Appalachian Voices supported the expansion of virtual power plant tools to more service territories.

The subcommittee reported HB562 by a vote of 7‑0. The bill will move forward for additional legislative consideration.