Solar Energy Could Spark Jobs, Income, and Energy Independence Across Appalachian Virginia

A new study by a team at UVA highlights how solar energy could bring real economic and community benefits to Appalachian Virginia.

Mary Asare-Addo, a Climate Fellow at the University of Virginia Environmental Institute and member of the Resilient Appalachia Climate Collaborative team, and her team released research demonstrating that solar energy can be more than a source of clean power for Appalachian Virginia — it can be a pathway to new jobs, new income, and stronger, more resilient communities.

The research was conducted by Mary Asare-Addo, Will W. Couch, Bevin Etienne, and Christine Mahoney at the University of Virginia along with Galen Maclaurin at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. Published in Energy Nexus, the study looks at where solar panels could be placed across the region and how they could help local communities. The research team studied both large solar farms built on land and large rooftop solar systems. Using mapping tools and data analysis, they identified places where solar projects would work best and have the most positive impact.

Mary Asare-Addo, a Climate Fellow, researches the capabilities and capacity of a solar energy economy in the Appalachian region. (Photo contributed.)

Their study has found strong indicators that solar energy would be beneficial. More than half of the region’s land area may be suitable for utility-scale solar development, while nearly half could support large rooftop installations. When implemented strategically with community input, these systems could provide sustained local revenue, support job creation, and strengthen regional energy independence.

Large ground-mounted solar projects could produce up to 1.62 terawatts of power and generate more than $42 billion over 25 years across the region. Rooftop solar systems could add another 10.08 gigawatts of power and bring in about $266 million over the same time period.

“Our research wanted to explore how solar energy may help communities grow stronger,” said Asare-Addo. “According to our results, solar power can do more than provide clean energy. It can create new economic opportunities, support local jobs, and make energy more affordable and reliable for families.”

A key focus of the research was ensuring that solar expansion aligns with community priorities. By incorporating land-use considerations and identifying areas where development would be most viable, the team aimed to help minimize community opposition and maximize shared benefits. The findings suggest that solar projects could play a meaningful role in improving socioeconomic resilience.

If developed carefully, these projects could bring long-term benefits to residents. By quantifying both technical capacity and long-term financial potential, the study could provide a roadmap for policymakers, planners, and local leaders seeking ways to leverage renewable energy as a tool for community-centered economic development and resilience.

“By identifying where solar can succeed,” explained Asare-Addo, “we’re hoping to support conversations within the community about how these opportunities may be able to directly benefit the people who live and work in this region.”