Henrico County, VA — Henrico County is taking significant steps toward cleaner air and more affordable utility bills through its groundbreaking “Solar Access Henrico” initiative. The program, a partnership with Dominion Energy, aims to provide low-income homeowners in the county with access to solar panel installations at no cost.
On Wednesday, April 23, 2025, the first installation under this initiative was completed. At around 10:30 a.m., the roof of a Henrico home was still a bare canvas. By noon, solar panels were fully installed, marking a major milestone for the program.
The “Solar Access Henrico” initiative is designed to help residents who meet income qualifications by offering solar power installation without any financial burden. This marks a transformative effort for low-income families, who may otherwise be unable to afford the upfront cost of solar energy.
Vallarie Reilly, a Henrico resident who has lived in her home for about two years, was the first to take advantage of the program. Reilly learned of her eligibility for the program on April 1 and expressed her excitement about the opportunity. In just a few weeks, her home had been transformed with solar panels.
“I’ve been knocking on doors, telling everyone about the program,” Reilly shared with 8News. “It’s amazing. I can’t believe it’s free to me! The savings I’ll get over the years will be incredible.”
Reilly, who is not only thrilled with the environmental benefits but also the financial relief the program brings, is expected to save an estimated $60,000 on her utility bills over the next 30 years.
Local officials view the initiative as a crucial step in both reducing energy costs and promoting sustainability. Henrico County’s Varina District Supervisor Tyrone Nelson emphasized the importance of the initiative, noting that the county has long prioritized environmental responsibility. “It’s not just about reducing costs for homeowners; it’s about making a positive environmental impact,” Nelson stated.
The county’s $5 million fund for the project is expected to bring solar power to up to 250 households across Henrico. Homeowners must meet specific eligibility requirements, including earning less than the area’s median income and living in a location accessible for solar panel installation. Those interested in the program can visit Dominion Energy’s website for more information on eligibility.
For Reilly and other participants, the impact is clear. “My grandbabies will have cleaner air to breathe,” she said, reflecting on the long-term benefits of the program. “Anytime you can reduce a bill, that’s a win-win.”
With this initiative, Henrico County is not only advancing toward a more sustainable future but also offering hope and tangible benefits to those who need it most. Through partnerships like this, communities across the country may look to Henrico as a model for combining environmental stewardship with financial relief for families.
