The Virginia Alternative and Renewable Energy Association (VA-AREA) is comprised of over 60 alternative and renewable energy developers, contractors, installers, energy related organizations, energy providers and associated companies/firms who are working in partnership to enact pro-growth public policy to expand Virginia's renewable energy industry, create jobs and attract investment while helping make Virginia the energy capital of East Coast.

Now more than ever, the research, development, production and use of alternative and renewable forms of energy are an integral and necessary component of the overall energy discussion. All levels of government, businesses and consumers have become increasingly aware of our country’s growing energy demands and are seeking more energy independence combined with more sustainable methods of energy production.

Organized in late 2008, the Virginia Alternative and Renewable Energy Association (VA-AREA) is a 501(c)6*, not-for-profit business trade association.

Goals & Objectives

• Serve as a unified voice and organization representing the alternative and renewable energy producers, partners and industry in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
• Promote alternative and renewable energy development, commercialization and use in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
• Foster a business and legislative climate where alternative and renewable energy including hydro, wind, solar, biomass, geothermal, waste, biofuels and hydrogen contribute to Virginia's economy through increased investment and job creation.
• Enhance the well-being and sustainability of Virginia's environment and valuable natural resources.
• Provide education, advice and support for policy makers, consumers and relevant state entities including the General Assembly, State Corporation Commission and Department of Environmental Quality, among others.
• Serve as a forum for members to share innovation, network, identify common objectives and discuss differences in policy.
• Develop positive relationships with key policy and decision makers and initiate a collaborative, coordinated approach to achieve alternative and renewable energy policies and industry objectives that generate a favorable business climate and foster growth.
• Encourage the establishment of strategic partnerships between the alternative and renewable energy industry, the Commonwealth of Virginia and its institutions of higher learning.
• Highlight the economic benefits, job and investment opportunities that the renewable and alternative energy industry contributes to Virginia.
• Identify barriers to the development and commercialization of alternative and renewable forms of energy in Virginia and develop solutions to address these challenges.
• Evaluate the progress of current voluntary Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) goals.
• Monitor proposed legislation and regulations pertinent to the renewable and alternative energy industry, advocating for or against when necessary.
• Assist the Commonwealth in meeting the goals pertaining to renewable and alternative forms of energy as set forth by the Virginia Energy Plan and the Governor's goal of making Virginia the energy capital of the East Coast.
• Work with Virginia's Congressional delegation to advance federal pro-growth policy recognizing that the federal government will play a vital role in the next decade as it explores opportunities to achieve energy independence.

*(pending final IRS approval).