RICHMOND, VA (Rocktown Now) — Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger has signed new legislation establishing the Commonwealth’s first formal definition of “agrivoltaics,” a move aimed at helping farmers adapt as solar development accelerates across rural counties. The measure, House Bill 508, amends state code to spell out when agricultural production and solar generation can legally operate on the same land.

Under the new definition, “agrivoltaics” means the “intentional co‑location of farming and solar energy” in a way that:

• Prioritizes and sustains agricultural productivity while integrating renewable energy;  
• Allows ongoing production and sale of marketable farm goods throughout the life of the solar array;  
• Is a part of a farm business that is consistent with commercial agricultural production
• Includes decommissioning provisions that protect long‑term soil health;  
• Does not significantly displace farming activity; and  
• Ensures flexibility for farmers to adapt to market conditions.

Supporters say the definition gives local governments and producers a clear framework as they evaluate solar proposals on working land. Advocates of the new law argue it will help preserve agricultural viability while still allowing landowners to benefit from energy‑generation income.

The law takes effect July 1, 2026.