New Solar Rules Could Affect Herndon High School's Energy Savings

Fairfax County Public Schools faces challenges expanding rooftop solar projects due to changes in Dominion Energy regulations.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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Herndon High School could save over $2 million in energy costs if Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) expand solar power purchase agreements, but new state-approved Dominion Energy rules are making larger school projects more expensive. Local climate and education advocates are pushing FCPS leaders to approve more rooftop solar before key federal tax credits phase out in 2026 and 2027.

Why it matters

As one of the largest school districts in the country, FCPS has an opportunity to lead on renewable energy adoption and sustainability initiatives. However, changes to Dominion Energy's solar policies threaten to undermine the financial viability of large-scale school solar projects, which could limit FCPS's ability to meet its climate goals and reduce energy costs for taxpayers.

The details

Under the new Dominion Energy rules approved by the state, larger solar projects like those planned for Herndon High School will face higher interconnection fees and other regulatory hurdles. This makes it more difficult for FCPS to expand its rooftop solar capacity and capitalize on federal tax credits that are set to expire in the coming years.

  • Herndon High School could save over $2 million in energy costs through expanded solar power.
  • Key federal tax credits for solar projects are set to phase out in 2026 and 2027.

The players

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS)

The largest school district in Virginia and one of the largest in the United States, serving over 180,000 students.

Dominion Energy

A major electric and natural gas utility company that provides service to customers in Virginia and other states.

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What’s next

Local climate and education advocates are pushing FCPS leaders to approve more rooftop solar projects at schools before the key federal tax credits expire in 2026 and 2027.

The takeaway

The changes to Dominion Energy's solar policies threaten to undermine the financial viability of large-scale school solar projects, which could limit FCPS's ability to meet its sustainability goals and reduce energy costs for taxpayers. This highlights the need for policymakers to ensure that regulations support, rather than hinder, the adoption of renewable energy in public schools and other community institutions.