Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination

Fairfax County’s Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination (OEEC) invites students to showcase how they are taking action for our planet in the Sustain Fairfax Earth Month Youth Art Contest. This contest celebrates the real, climate‑friendly steps young people are taking and how those actions benefit our environment and community. It connects directly to the Sustain Fairfax Challenge, an online platform where residents track and share their climate actions.

Participants will fall into one of three categories, grades 4-6, grades 7-8, and grades 9-12.  Students can submit original artwork, including designs, photographs, or drawings, to inspire residents to complete climate actions in our community. 

The winning artwork will be used on OEEC’s marketing and promotional materials and may be shared in places such as on social media, websites, in email, and on in-person platforms (i.e. flyers, posters, giveaways, etc.).  

Students can submit original artwork reflecting the theme: “My Actions, Our Climate.” Posters should be submitted digitally or mailed to the OEEC office by May 15 at 4 p.m. Winners will be notified in May or early June 2026.

• Theme: “My Action, Our Climate” – submissions shall note completed climate action(s) and the impacts of the actions (environmental, monetary, energy savings, etc.) as noted on the Sustain Fairfax Challenge platform.
• Eligibility: Students residing and attending school in Fairfax County, including private, parochial and homeschool students
• Categories: grades 4-6, grades 7-8, grades 9-12
• Prizes: $25 gift card and certificate of recognition for winners in each category. There may be one honorable mention selection picked from any of the categories that will receive the same prize.
• Submission Deadline: Friday, May 15, 2026, by 4 p.m. 

Let your creativity shine and show how your actions make a difference—submit your artwork and help inspire climate action across Fairfax County.

For more information about the contest, including submission guidelines and entry requirements, go to Sustain Fairfax Earth Month Youth Art Contest.  Please contact OEEC Staff at 703-324-7136, TTY 711 or email OEECInfo@fairfaxcounty.gov for assistance. 

Enter Art Contest

Two regional group purchasing programs, Solarize Virginia and Switch Together, are making it easier and more affordable for homeowners to go solar while navigating a rapidly changing energy landscape.

Solarize Virginia is a long-running, education-focused campaign led by local nonprofit Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP) that helps Virginians explore rooftop solar through free assessments, trusted information, vetted installers and pre-negotiated pricing.

Switch Together is a group buying program offered by national nonprofit Solar United Neighbors that secures discounted solar, battery storage, and EV chargers through a competitive reverse auction, giving residents below-market pricing and free, no-obligation recommendations.

Residents who join either program can get a free assessment and take advantage of discounted rates, access to trusted installers, educational events and ongoing support throughout the process to ensure a seamless experience — from the initial consultation to installation. Registration is free and there’s no obligation to accept an offer.

“Solar is one of the most practical tools we have to help households lower their bills, strengthen the reliability of our energy system, and cut greenhouse gas emissions at the same time,” said John Morrill, Director of the Fairfax County Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination.  

“Group purchasing programs take the guesswork out of going solar. They give residents trusted information, vetted installers, and real cost savings — all while helping Fairfax County and the region move toward a cleaner, more resilient energy future.” 

Solarize Virginia 

Solarize Virginia is back for its 12th year, offering a simple path forward for homeowners to learn about and go solar. Since 2014, more than 1,700 systems have been installed through the program — adding over 16,000 kilowatt hours of clean energy to the grid.

Homeowners who sign up are paired with vetted installers who offer discounted prices. For the first time, participants will have the option this year to purchase their system outright or lease the system to get the benefit of lower energy bills with little to no upfront costs.

This year’s campaign will also place special emphasis on addressing common questions about incentives, financing options amid federal changes, grid policies and the long-term benefits of solar energy systems. Throughout the campaign, LEAP will host informational webinars, community events, and one-on-one consultations on how solar works, financing and ownership options and net metering policies.  

“Homeowners are hearing a lot about solar right now, from changing federal incentives to evolving utility policies,” said Deborah Arenstein, Solar Program Manager at LEAP. “Our goal with this year’s Solarize Virginia campaign is to cut through the noise and help residents understand what their options are.”

From April 15 through July 15, Fairfax County residents can sign up for free solar assessments and get information about webinars and other educational opportunities by visiting www.solarizeva.org.  

Switch Together

Switch Together is a group buying program which not only makes rooftop solar installations more affordable but also makes home battery storage and EV chargers easier to access. A companion Switch Together Heat Pumps program launched this year to give residents another opportunity to save money and be more energy efficient.

To date, over 16,600 households have accepted an offer through Switch Together. Through the current program, the average household is expected to save $6,323 on a solar installation — 21% lower than the market average.

The program organizes a reverse auction with qualified installers who compete to offer their most competitive prices, ensuring participants receive a discount on a high-quality solar installation. Participants in the program also have the option to lease rather than buy the system. The program also offers robust solar education through online resources and in-person events.  

"With utility rates rising across the country, many families are feeling the squeeze on their monthly budgets," said Sukrit Mishra, Solar United Neighbors DC Program Director. “Switch Together is designed to give neighbors a way to fight back. By going solar as a group, residents can lock in lower energy costs and protect themselves from the unpredictability of future rate hikes."

Fairfax County homeowners can register or learn more at SwitchTogether.com/Solar/FairfaxCounty. The final day to register and accept a personal recommendation is August 19.

Fairfax County also offers incentives for solar, such as waived permit fees and a 5-year solar energy equipment property tax exemption. Visit Going Solar in Fairfax County to learn more.

About the Local Energy Alliance Program 
The Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit headquartered in Charlottesville, VA. As a trusted nonprofit, LEAP delivers energy-efficient solutions in Virginia to make homes safer, healthier, and more affordable, while reducing energy usage and mitigating climate change.  

About Solar United Neighbors 
Solar United Neighbors is a national nonprofit organization that represents the needs and interests of solar owners and supporters. Bulk purchase programs, like Switch Together, are part of the organization’s mission to create a new energy system with rooftop solar at the cornerstone. Solar United Neighbors holds events and education programs to help people become informed solar consumers, maximize the value of their solar investment, and advocate for fair solar policies. 

Fairfax County is promoting a new way for area homeowners to save money on their electric bills: Switch Together Heat Pumps. Known for their successful solar programs, Switch Together is now helping Fairfax County residents electrify their homes with efficient heat pump technology. 

Heat pumps provide energy‑efficient heating and cooling year-round, helping lower your bills, modernize your home, and improve reliability and performance — making them a smart choice for sustainable living. If your HVAC system or water heater is at or near end of life, it is worth exploring a heat pump replacement.

The Switch Together Heat Pump program is provided by national nonprofit Solar United Neighbors and promoted by Fairfax County and other cities and counties in the DMV area and throughout the United States. Switch Together also offers a group buying program for high-quality solar panels and battery storage. 

“Heat pumps are a great way to use the electricity solar panels generate,” said Sukrit Mishra, Solar United Neighbors DMV Program Director. “Working through Switch Together, participants can learn about both technologies, how they can lower energy bills, and if making the switch is right for them.”

How Does it Work?

The program organizes qualified contractors who compete to offer their most competitive prices for installing an efficient heat pump system. Households that participate in the current heat pump program are expected to receive an average discount of 15% compared to the standard market price for heat pump installations. In addition to this group discount, households may qualify for available heat pump incentives, further increasing potential savings.

How You Can Participate

Visit SwitchTogether.com/HeatPumps/FairfaxCounty to register or learn more. Participants will receive a free personal offer upon registering. It is free to register and there is no obligation to accept an offer. The final day to register and accept a personal offer is Wednesday, May 27, 2026.

In 2025, Fairfax County continued its efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emission, lower energy use, and build resiliency to changing climate conditions, including completing seven energy retrofits at public facilities, welcoming 20 new members to the Green Business Partners program, and helping residents floodproof their homes.

Join Chairman Jeffrey C. McKay as he looks back on some major milestones in environmental sustainability as well as other significant accomplishments county government made in 2025.

Watch the 2026 State of the County VidEO

Fairfax County’s Environmental Quality Advisory Council (EQAC) announces two events to help shape the future of the county’s environmental policies and initiatives. 

The 2025 Annual Report on the Environment is now available, offering EQAC’s analysis of Fairfax County’s environmental status and progress. The report examines air and water quality, transportation, waste management, climate change, and ecological conservation, providing actionable recommendations to address challenges and drive sustainable solutions. For a streamlined overview, residents can access the Executive Summary, which highlights the priority recommendations from the report.

The report is a helpful resource for residents, policymakers, and stakeholders interested in understanding the county’s environmental landscape and contributing to the development of effective strategies for future improvement.

Upcoming Annual Public Comment Meeting – Share Your Voice
EQAC is inviting the community to participate in its Annual Public Comment Meeting, scheduled for January 14, 2026. This meeting offers a platform for residents to share their concerns, feedback, and suggestions directly with EQAC members as they continue to inform policies that reflect the needs and priorities of Fairfax County residents. Public input is vital to fostering collaborative solutions to environmental challenges and creating a more sustainable future for the community.

Event Details:
•    What: EQAC Annual Public Comment Meeting
•    When: January 14, 2026
•    Time: 7:15 p.m.
•    Where: Fairfax County Government Center, 12000 Government Center Parkway, Room 4/5

To join the speakers list in advance, contact the Fairfax County Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination at 703-324-7136, TTY 711, or email EQAC@fairfaxcounty.gov.  Residents may provide comments at the meeting in person, or alternatively submit feedback by video or email to EQAC@fairfaxcounty.gov.  by January 12, 2026, at 5 p.m. Additional public comment opportunities will occur during selected in-person EQAC meetings throughout the year, as outlined on the EQAC webpage.

Stay Engaged and Take Action
EQAC encourages all residents to stay engaged and get involved in shaping Fairfax County’s environmental policies. Together, we can build a greener, healthier, and more sustainable future!

Let’s celebrate businesses committed to sustainability, foster new connections, and spark inspiration!

The Fairfax County Green Business Partners Program is excited to announce its 2025 Social event, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM on Thursday, Dec. 4, 2025 at Spaces Reston Station. This gathering is an opportunity for members, leaders, and allies to connect, share achievements, and honor the businesses whose sustainable practices continue to drive environmental and economic growth in Fairfax County. 

“Whether you are new to the Green Business Partners Program or a long-time member, this event offers the perfect opportunity to celebrate sustainable progress, engage with like-minded professionals, and expand your network,” said Green Business Partners Program Manager Stephanie Cadena.

Here’s what attendees can expect:

• Networking opportunities with businesses, community leaders, and sustainability advocates.
• Recognition of GBP Facilitated Impact Tracking (FIT) Pilot participants, celebrating their contributions in promoting innovative sustainability measures.
• A "Sustainabites" showcase, highlighting the creative and impactful sustainability practices of participating partners

The event is free and open to current members or those interested in joining, but registration is required. Light refreshments will be provided for all attendees.

The Green Business Partners program recognizes Fairfax County businesses interested in sustainable business practices that advance climate action and help create a carbon neutral economy. The program is free and 70 companies and organizations have joined as Leaders, Members and Allies.

Join us in advancing the mission of building a more sustainable Fairfax County!

To learn more about the Green Business Partners program, email greenbusiness@fairfaxcounty.gov or visit the Green Business Partners webpage.

Event: Green Business Partners Social

Date: December 4, 2025

Time: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. ET

Location: Spaces Reston Station, 1900 Reston Metro Plaza, 6th floor, Reston, Va.

Fairfax County has launched a new program to help simplify the process of making energy-efficient upgrades for homeowners. The Fairfax Energy Compass program, introduced in September 2025, offers free personalized advice from energy experts who provide homeowners with clear guidance and tailored solutions to transform their homes into energy-saving spaces.

Maya Dhavale, senior community specialist and program manager for Fairfax Energy Compass with our Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination, appeared on a recent County Conversation podcast to explain how the program works and who can benefit from it.

 

The Great Falls Library is now more energy-efficient and sustainable thanks to a recently completed energy project that supports Fairfax County’s climate goals.

The project replaced boilers and pumps and upgraded lighting, water fixtures, and building controls. The work also included improvements to the building envelope that enhance the library’s energy efficiency while making the space more comfortable for staff and visitors. By modernizing key systems, the upgrades are expected to lower energy consumption at the library by 15%.

“Our libraries are more than a place to check out books — they are truly a community hub and ensuring we operate sustainably is critical for both the environment and the residents we serve,” said Eric Carzon, director of Fairfax County Public Library.  “These updates create a more energy efficient, comfortable space while supporting Fairfax County’s broader commitment to sustainability and climate action. We’re proud to be part of this effort.”

Through its energy performance contracting program, the county is identifying high-impact, energy-saving projects at public facilities that can reduce utility costs and overall greenhouse gas emissions. So far this year, seven buildings received whole-building energy retrofits with four more slated to be completed in 2026.

These efforts to make county operations greener resulted in more than $6 million in savings from avoided utility costs in fiscal year 2024.

The Great Falls Library project showcases the vital role energy efficiency plays in protecting the environment while enhancing public spaces. “Projects like this are a testament to the county’s commitment to the goals outlined in our Operational Energy Strategy,” said John Morrill, Director of the Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination. “The upgrades at Great Falls Library demonstrate how targeted energy performance projects can reduce carbon emissions, lower utility bills, and create healthier spaces for the community.” 

Fairfax County Public Library Facilities Manager Kevin Brooks said that exceptional coordination with OEEC and the Facilities Management Department ensured the project was seamless for both staff and patrons. "The work done was substantial and there were nearly zero impacts to library operations," Brooks said.

Visit the Operational Energy Strategy to learn more about energy performance projects.

Today, Fairfax County announced the winners of the 2025 Environmental Excellence Awards, recognizing outstanding individuals, organizations and businesses that have made remarkable contributions to environmental stewardship and sustainability.

This year’s winners include a senior planner advancing climate resilience, a wastewater director restoring ecosystems, a Fairfax County Public Schools team fostering environmental literacy, a dedicated advocate for habitat restoration, a grassroots partnership promoting sustainability in underserved communities, and a business championing circular fashion and textile waste reduction. 

“These winners exemplify how individual and collective action can positively transform our community,” said Chairman Jeffrey C. McKay. “Their achievements inspire all of us to continue working together to protect and enhance our natural environment for future generations.”  

The Environmental Excellence Awards are presented annually to recognize county residents, county employees, businesses and organizations who have dedicated their time and expertise to preserving the health and beauty of Fairfax County’s natural resources. The awards are administered by the Environmental Quality Advisory Council with support from the Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination (OEEC). A committee of the council selects awardees from a pool of nominations.

The 2025 Environmental Excellence Awardees are:

• County Government Employee Category: Allison Homer, a senior planner with OEEC, for advancing climate adaptation and resilience through equity-driven solutions, including the launch of Fairfax County’s AC Rescue program for underserved populations.
   
• County Government Employee Category: Michael McGrath, Wastewater Treatment Director at the Noman M. Cole, Jr. Water Recycling Facility, for 23 years of leadership in sustainable water management and the ecological recovery of Gunston Cove through advanced treatment technologies.
   
• County Government Employee Category: Get2Green Team, for advancing environmental literacy among Fairfax County Public Schools students and building sustainable school cultures through outdoor learning spaces, wildlife habitats, garden programs, and waste reduction efforts.
   
• Individual Resident Category: Margaret E. Fisher, an advocate for habitat restoration and biodiversity, for her property-based and community-wide initiatives promoting wildlife sanctuaries, native plants, and pesticide-free practices as part of the Plant NOVA Natives campaign.
   
• Organization Category: Friends of Holmes Run (FoHR) and Hispanics Against Child Abuse and Neglect (HACAN), for their transformative partnership educating the Culmore-Crossroads community about sustainable alternatives to single-use plastics and fostering trust in municipal water with culturally relevant outreach programs.
   
• Business Category: Sewing Lab, for empowering individuals to reduce textile waste and embrace circular fashion through hands-on workshops, clothing swaps, and educational programs in partnership with local organizations.

An awards ceremony to celebrate the 2024 and 2025 Environmental Excellence Award winners will take place on October 30 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Government Center in the Board Auditorium with a reception to immediately follow in the Forum. The event will also honor the recipients of the Friends of Trees and James M. Scott Exceptional Design awards.

For more information, including a list of past winners, please visit the Environmental Excellence Awards webpage.

Fairfax County is shining a spotlight on the power of energy efficiency during Energy Efficiency Week, designated this year as October 1-7, 2025. While the week offers a designated time to rally around sustainability, the benefits of energy efficiency are something that residents, businesses and the community can embrace year-round.

Adopting energy efficiency policies and practices in the county reduces costs, cuts air pollution and helps meet climate goals.