Va. Code Ann. § 45.2-2200 Model ordinances for energy storage resources
A. By December 1, 2026, the Department, in consultation with the Department of Environmental Quality and the Department of Fire Programs, shall develop model ordinances suggested for use by localities in their regulation of energy storage projects, as described in subsection E of § 56-585.5 , and shall update such model ordinances every three years thereafter. Such model ordinances shall include (i) minimum safety standards in accordance with the most recently published edition of the National Fire Protection Association 855 Standard for the Installation of Stationary Energy Storage Systems, (ii) consideration of the varying characteristics of different energy storage technologies, and (iii) any other factors the Department deems relevant to support the development of energy storage in the Commonwealth. In developing such model ordinances, the Department shall develop and publish a guideline document that advises localities on best practices for reviewing energy storage projects.
B. The Department shall convene a work group to advise the Department on the development or update of model ordinances conducted pursuant to subsection A. Such work group shall include representatives from the Department of Environmental Quality, the Department of Fire Programs, an association representing localities, a nonprofit agricultural advocacy organization, an environmental organization, trade associations related to solar, energy storage, and clean energy, storage project engineers, electric utilities, and any other stakeholders deemed relevant by the Department. The Department shall make available online any resources or studies developed by the work group and shall develop and maintain online resources to educate localities, developers, contractors, residents, businesses, researchers, and other stakeholders about energy storage.
2026, cc. 694 , 695 .