Why 3/5: It modifies the regulatory framework for clean energy infrastructure, impacting future development.
This bill streamlines the approval process for battery energy storage projects co-located with commercial solar facilities by making them a permitted accessory use, eliminating the need for additional local land use approvals. This change is expected to accelerate the deployment of energy storage, which is vital for integrating renewable energy into Virginia's power grid.
Passed a chamber
Read third time and passed Senate (26-Y 13-N 0-A)
Update
Placed on Calendar
First reading
Read first time
Referred to committee
Referred to Committee on Counties, Cities and Towns
Cleared committee
Reported from Counties, Cities and Towns (18-Y 3-N)
Second reading
Read second time
Third reading
Read third time
Passed a chamber
Passed House (68-Y 30-N 0-A)
Enrolled
Enrolled
This bill has passed its votes and is headed to the Governor's desk. You still have a say — the Governor's office reads messages before deciding whether to sign.
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Summarized from the official bill text (“Siting of battery energy storage projects; commercial solar photovoltaic generation facilities.”) · Read the actual bill →
Passed a chamber
Bill text as passed Senate and House (SB443ER)
Passed a chamber
Signed by Speaker
Passed a chamber
Signed by President
Enrolled
Enrolled Bill communicated to Governor on March 10, 2026
Sent to the Governor
Governor's Action Deadline 11:59 p.m., April 13, 2026
Line-item veto
Governor's recommendation received by Senate