Fairfax County announces largest municipal solar PPA initiative in Virginia

Fairfax County government officials announced contracts with multiple solar power purchase agreement (PPA) service providers. The contracts will allow for the installation of solar photovoltaic arrays at Fairfax County government, school, and park sites, providing the potential for both substantial cost avoidance and environmental benefits over time. The PPA will potentially expand the use of solar energy to 87 Fairfax County public schools and facilities. This is the largest solar PPA initiative by a local municipality in Virginia to date. Solar PPAs are attractive financing mechanisms for the purchase of renewable energy by government entities because they allow for the purchase of solar-generated electricity from on-site arrays without upfront installation or ongoing operational costs. The solar PPA service provider is responsible for installation, management and maintenance costs.