Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination

County residents may not be familiar with the Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination (OEEC), but many are already benefiting from its work — through more comfortable, energy efficient homes, cleaner air and expanded climate friendly transportation options. 

In a recent episode of the County Conversation podcast, OEEC Director John Morrill explains how the office was created in 2019 to coordinate the county’s major climate and energy efforts. He highlights key plans, including the Communitywide Energy and Climate Action Plan (CECAP), Operational Energy Strategy, and Resilient Fairfax, and notes that communitywide greenhouse gas emissions are already down 28% from 2005 levels. 

Morrill also discusses several OEEC programs that directly serve residents, businesses, and nonprofits, such as Fairfax Energy Compass, Charge Up Fairfax, and the Sustain Fairfax Challenge, all designed to help people save energy, reduce costs and build a more sustainable and resilient community. He also highlights the AC Rescue program, which provides free air conditioning units and repairs to residents who don’t have a way to cool their home. As local summers become “warmer, wetter, and weirder,” AC Rescue is helping protect vulnerable households from dangerous extreme heat. 

Looking ahead, Morrill — who is retiring in August — shares why he remains optimistic about the “relentless” shift toward clean energy and how Fairfax County can work with partners to align economic growth with its climate goals.

To learn more about OEEC and its programs, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/environment-energy-coordination. 
 

Listen to the County Conversation Podcast with John Morrill

About the County Conversation Podcast 
The County Conversation is a podcast featuring Fairfax County Government staff and subject matter experts discussing programs, services, and topics of interest to residents. Find more episodes at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/podcasts. 

Written by Sophia Eames, OEEC Spring 2026 Communications Intern

What does it actually take to make a county more sustainable? Before this internship, I would have given you a textbook answer. After a season with Fairfax County’s Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination (OEEC), I can give you a real one, and it involves a lot more teamwork, creativity, and community than I ever expected.

Hi! My name is Sophia Eames and I came to OEEC as a communications intern with a social science background and a passion for sustainability. I’ll be walking away from this experience with new appreciation for web accessibility standards, EV charging guidance, and energy audits processes — and most importantly, firsthand knowledge of how climate policy comes to life at the local level.

At first, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I was a bit nervous, not really familiar with the inner workings of a local government agency. However, what I quickly discovered was how interconnected OEEC was to county life, and how diverse its programs were to support all sorts of constituent needs. From the AC Rescue program to social media outreach, the office covers and informs on an impressive range of environmental and infrastructure topics, and I’m proud to have contributed to that work.

Translating Policy into Plain Language

My first major assignment was ensuring that the office's web content was both readable and accessible — a task that sounds straightforward until you realize just how much thought it requires. 

So, what does that actually mean? In 2024, the Department of Justice finalized a rule under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), requiring state and local governments to make their websites and mobile apps accessible to people with disabilities. In practice, this means digital content must work for everyone, regardless of ability, device, or circumstance. This challenge pushed me to rethink how information is written and presented — removing all the jargon and translating technical concepts into clear, digestible language. But in order to simplify something, you first need to understand it. 

In the process, I learned about electric vehicle types and chargers, solar panel tax credits, environmental leadership opportunities, and how the county has achieved measurable success with green building practices. The accessibility work became an unexpected deep dive into the very topics I care most about, and it reinforced just how important it is for local government to communicate clearly with all of its residents. 

Energy Audits: Lessons from the Field

One of the most memorable experiences of the internship was accompanying the team on energy audits at two Metro adjacent facilities: Herndon Yard and the Wiehle Metro Station garage. Did you know that a poorly ventilated parking garage can develop its own miniature weather system, complete with clouds forming along the ceiling? I certainly didn't and I was completely shocked when I learned that at the audits. Following the engineers and analysts at Herndon Yard, I was able to understand what factors go into the installation of solar panels and industrial machinery. 

The questions they asked were ones I'd never thought to consider: What material are the walls and supporting beams made from? What direction does the structure face? What's the facility's daily electricity consumption? Each answer determined whether and how renewable energy infrastructure could be incorporated. At Wiehle, on the other hand, the team was investigating a suspected energy leak. Hearing engineers debate the possible causes made me realize the economic and legal aspects of this work. What I appreciated the most though, especially coming from a person with a social science background, was that no one was dismissive of questions; everyone was collaborative, curious, and genuinely committed to solving the problem. I never once felt out of place asking something basic, and the generosity of the team made it an incredibly enriching experience. 

Throughout the internship I came to understand what a strong communications strategy looks like, and how important it is to have one especially for an office that organizes regularly with federal agencies, private partners or third parties. Charge Up Fairfax and Sustain Fairfax, two of OEEC’s initiatives, are ambitious programs that require consistent, accurate and engaging communication to be effective. Charge Up Fairfax supports community organizations in navigating the transition to electric vehicles, while Sustain Fairfax encourages residents and businesses to adopt sustainable habits and practices. Keeping the materials for these programs up to date and aligned across teams required constant coordination between the communications team and program managers, and it taught me that attention to detail is not optional when the goal is public trust.

Talking Climate Action with Pre-K and Skeptics Alike

This was exemplified at the Building Safety Month Resource Fair, where I joined two colleagues at an OEEC table for a full day of community engagement. The event attracted a wide range of visitors — curious passersby, engaged residents, and, at one delightful and unexpected moment, an entire Pre-K class. No one is too young (or too old!) to learn about solar power, as it turns out. Explaining the concept of renewable energy to four-year-olds was simultaneously one of the most creative and most tiring communication challenges I've faced. I also witnessed meaningful conversations with residents who came in skeptical about electric vehicles or renewable energy, and it was genuinely powerful to see how a simple, honest conversation could shift someone's perspective. That kind of direct community engagement is something I won't forget.

Another project I thoroughly enjoyed was producing a "Day in the Life" social media video designed to give our audience a look at what it's actually like to work at OEEC. The first iteration of this series features Kevin Smith, our Division Manager for Energy Programs. As I worked through the editing process, sorting footage, deciding what to keep and what to cut, I realized how much storytelling is involved in even short-form video content. The skills I applied here weren't so different from the skills behind a well-written article or essay: know your audience, lead with something compelling, and make every word count. It was a great reminder that communications work spans far more formats than I initially expected, and that adaptability is just as important as any other technical skill.

What This Internship Taught Me That Classrooms Can’t

Being part of the OEEC communications team this spring taught me things no classroom fully could. I learned about office dynamics, the importance of teamwork, and the genuine interdependence required between agencies and people to make local government function well. I discovered that the work that sometimes looks “boring” from the outside, like updating websites, writing emails, or staffing tables, often carries real meaning when you understand its purpose and its audience. Yes, there were quieter days at my cubicle; yes, it looked like the typical “office”, but the majority of the time the room was full of laughter, collaboration and people who truly care about the environment and what they do. 

I'm leaving this experience with technical knowledge I didn't have before, professional skills that will serve me in graduate school and beyond, and admiration for the talented people at OEEC who show up every day to make Fairfax County a more sustainable place to live. I have no doubt this internship has set me up well for the next chapter ahead.

Sophia Eames is a recent graduate of The George Washington University, where she studied International Affairs and Public Policy with coursework in climate regulation, global energy markets, and GIS. She served as OEEC’s Communications Intern for the Spring 2026 term and will be pursuing an M.S. in Environment and International Affairs at Georgetown’s School of Foreign Service in the fall.

Climate Matters is the blog of Fairfax County’s Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination, where we share stories, insights and information related to climate change and environmental sustainability. Posts are written by knowledgeable and passionate OEEC staff members and guest authors. To read all blog posts, visit Climate Matters.

The Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination (OEEC) has released the 2025 Climate Action Progress and Highlights Report, documenting another year of significant gains toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions and building a more climate-resilient Fairfax County. 

The report outlines progress across county operations and the broader community, including major steps forward in clean energy, sustainable development, climate-ready infrastructure, and support for residents most vulnerable to the impacts of “warmer, wetter and weirder” weather. 

While overall greenhouse gas emissions in Fairfax County have decreased by 4.2 million metric tons, or 28%, since 2005, emissions rose slightly between 2020 and 2023, according to the latest inventory from the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments. This uptick is largely due to vehicle travel bouncing back from the reduced levels seen during the 2020 pandemic.

“Despite a challenging policy and funding environment at the federal and state levels, Fairfax County continues to move forward on climate action,” said OEEC Director John Morrill. “The progress we’ve made is the product of strong partnerships across county agencies and alongside community organizations, businesses, and residents.” 

 

Read More on County NewsCenter

Fairfax County’s Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination is proud to announce the winners of the 2026 Sustain Fairfax Earth Month Youth Art Contest, celebrating student creativity and real-world climate action. See a full gallery of the Sustain Fairfax Earth Month Youth Art Contest Entries.

Explore Virtual Art Gallery

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. 

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. 

Note:  The final day to register and accept a personal offer through Switch Together has been extended to July 15, 2026.

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.