Proposed $67 billion utility merger sparks concern about rooftop solar access, bill affordability

Dominion Energy, Virginia's largest utility, has proposed a $67 billion merger with Florida-based NextEra Energy that would create the largest regulated electric power company in the country. The deal, submitted to the Virginia State Corporation Commission on July 15, is raising questions about what might happen to rooftop solar rules in Virginia if it goes through.

The concern centers on net metering, the policy that lets homeowners with solar panels get credit on their bills for extra power they send back to the grid. Virginia's 2020 Clean Economy Act currently guarantees full retail-rate net metering. NextEra's Florida utility, Florida Power & Light, has a history of backing changes that would reduce those credits and raise fees for connecting home solar systems to the grid — moves that were blocked by Florida's governor in 2022. Solar industry groups worry NextEra could bring similar positions to Virginia after the merger. Florida Power & Light also requires commercial liability insurance on some home solar systems, another rule advocates don't want to see spread north.

Dominion has said the merger won't change Virginia's clean energy commitments, and its president told regulators the company remains committed to the Clean Economy Act. Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger has filed to formally intervene in the case. The SCC's review could take up to 180 days, and the deal still needs sign-off from shareholders, regulators in North and South Carolina, and two federal agencies. The companies expect to close the deal in late 2027. For now, Virginia's net metering rules haven't changed, but the merger is one to watch if you have solar panels or are considering them.