RICHMOND, Va. (AP) -- In a ceremonial signing, Gov. Bob McDonnell has added his signature to eight pieces of legislation to promote clean and renewable energy in Virginia.
The legislation signed Wednesday includes creation of a voluntary solar resource development fund, expansion of the scope of the Virginia Resources Authority to allow financing of renewable energy projects, and a clean energy manufacturing incentive grant program.
McDonnell has made energy a cornerstone of his Republican administration. He has said he wants to make the state the East Coast energy capital, using what he called a "red, white and blue" approach that includes offshore oil and gas, nuclear, coal and renewables.
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NEWS7 spoke with one company that already uses the sun as its primary energy source, and is excited about the direction Virginia is headed.
"I think we have finally reached the point where people realize how critical it is. I'm really excited that Virginia is taking a step in leadership to move us forward and putting these things in place that make it a little easier to do. I think this legislation is moving forward with clean energy," said Nell Boyle.
Boyle thinks the legislation will help homes and businesses realize the potential returns a shift towards clean, renewable energy can have.
