Vienna Zip Code Is Top For Solar Energy Installations In NoVA

VIENNA, VA — Vienna's zip code is the top place for solar energy system installations in Northern Virginia, according to numbers from the Solarize NOVA program.

The 22180 zip code, which is largely made up of Town of Vienna residences, had the most solar installations since 2014. Over this five-year period, 29 homes installed solar energy systems. That's nearly 10 percent of the 305 solar contracts across Northern Virginia.

The Town of Vienna has been promoting solar panels and other green initiatives. "Local governments have long led the way in innovation in Virginia," said Bob Lazaro, executive director of the Northern Virginia Regional Commission, which sponsors Solarize NOVA. "This is just another shining example of how regionalism and localities working together make a positive difference. Our thanks to the Town of Vienna team and a super group of citizen volunteers."

Solarize NOVA is aimed at bringing solar power to homes and businesses in Northern Virginia. The Northern Virginia Regional Commission and program manager Local Energy Alliance Program work with local governments to bring negotiated contracts with vetted vendors to residents each spring. Aside from the Town of Vienna, solar campaigns have happened in Fairfax County, Reston, City of Falls Church, City of Fairfax, City of Alexandria, Town of Herndon, Loudoun County, Town of Leesburg, Town of Purcellville, Town of Dumfries and various jurisdictions in the Piedmont area.

According to Solarize NOVA, rooftop solar panels cost between $10,000 and $25,000 on average. Various Virginia jurisdictions offer local property tax exemptions or partial exemptions for solar energy equipment, and a federal tax credit remains available.

The next Solarize NOVA program will happen in spring 2020.