Virginia · 2026 Regular Session · Bill
HB 617: Electric utilities; virtual power plant pilot program, Phase I Utilities.
In committee Official data
- Introduced
- In committee
- Passed one chamber
- Passed both chambers
- Enacted
Last official action: ·Record last updated:
Plain-language summary
HB 617 is a bill introduced in the Virginia House on January 13, 2026. According to its official title, it concerns: Electric utilities; virtual power plant pilot program, Phase I Utilities. Primary sponsor: Joe McNamara (Republican). Most recent recorded action (February 18, 2026): Left in Labor and Commerce.
Generated automatically from the official title, sponsor list, and status record only. It does not characterize the bill’s purpose or effects. How summaries are written
Official summary
Abstract published by the legislature (via Open States). Text as published by the legislature; reproduced verbatim.
Electric utilities; virtual power plant pilot program; Phase I Utilities. Requires Appalachian Power to petition the State Corporation Commission for approval to conduct a pilot program to evaluate methods to optimize demand through various technology applications, including the establishment of virtual power plants, by December 1, 2026. The bill requires the pilot program to evaluate electric grid capacity needs and the ability of such virtual power plants to provide grid services, including peak-shaving, during times of peak electric demand.
Sponsors
Sponsors by party (alphabetical): Republican 1
| Name | Role | Party | Chamber | District |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joe McNamara | Primary sponsor | Republican | House | 40 |
“Support” is shown only as formal sponsorship recorded by the legislature. Roll-call votes are available on the official bill page.
Recent official actions
- Left in Labor and Commerce
- Fiscal Impact Statement from State Corporation Commission (HB617)
- Assigned HCL sub: Subcommittee #3
- Subcommittee recommends laying on the table (5-Y 2-N)
- Referred to Committee on Labor and Commerce
- Prefiled and ordered printed; Offered 01-14-2026 26103496D