Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination

CONTACT INFORMATION: Our office is open to visitors by appointment only. Please call or email from 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
703-324-7136 TTY 711
12000 Government Center Pkwy, Suite 533
Fairfax, VA 22035
John Morrill
Director

Resources for Organizations

Sustain Fairfax: Your Actions, Our Climate

With your actions and support, we can create a sustainable and resilient Fairfax County — helping fight climate change and protect our community. Find out how your small actions, like making building energy upgrades, can make a big difference.


Power of Faith Energy Solutions

Fairfax County's Office of Environmental & Energy Coordination and Faith Alliance for Climate Solutions has partnered together to support congregations across Northern Virginia in saving energy and lowering costs. Power of Faith Fairfax offers exclusive grants and financing for houses of worship in Fairfax County to make energy-saving upgrades easier and more affordable. What can your congregation do?


Building a Green Team

Assembling a group of interested and responsible staff can be a great first step toward establishing a culture of sustainably in your organization. These groups are often called green teams, but any name will do. At Fairfax County, our employee group is called Fairfax Employees for Environmental Excellence, or FEEE. Based on our experience, we are pleased to share some tips for how to start a green team and outreach ideas that we’ve found successful.


Become a Green Business Partner Ally

Fairfax County is recognizing businesses that are actively engaging in or interested in sustainable business practices that advance climate action and will help create a carbon neutral economy. Does your organization work directly with local businesses who want to become more sustainable? Consider becoming a Green Business Partners Ally to help us further the vision and mission of the GBP!


Sign up for the Environmental, Climate, and Energy Newsletter

Subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter - dedicated to providing you with the latest news and updates on climate change initiatives and policies. Sign up below and view past newsletters here.

Climate Action Dashboard

Climate Action Progress and Highlights

The Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination (OEEC) coordinates interagency efforts for the implementation of the county’s climate plans. Read the 2024 Climate Action Progress and Highlights reports for updates on the county's collective efforts towards sustainability, energy efficiency, and climate resilience. Looking for earlier data? The 2023 Progress Update includes detailed climate action progress metrics.


Sector-Specific Metrics: 

On the following pages, you’ll find emission reduction and resiliency metrics related to specific sectors: Buildings, Energy Supply, Transportation, Waste, Natural Resources, and Community Services.

Climate Plans, Policies, and Initiatives

Fairfax County has enacted significant plans, policies and initiatives to address the causes and effects of climate change and advance environmentally sound and energy efficient activities in county operations and beyond. From plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and build resiliency community-wide to a sweeping environmental vision that addresses the conservation and protection of natural resources, these plans and policies help to define a sustainable future for all residents.


Natural Resources

There are many Fairfax County agencies, boards, and partners that manage or protect natural resources. The Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination helps to “connect the dots” between these agencies, fostering a well-connected system of natural resources. For additional information, please refer to the following pages from our partner agencies:  


Natural Resources and Climate Action

Healthy and protected natural resources help us address both the cause and the effects of climate change. On the "cause" side, natural resources absorb greenhouse gas emissions, reducing our contributions to climate change. The Community-wide Energy and Climate Action Plan (CECAP) has goals for natural resources and carbon sequestration. On the "effects" side, natural resources, such as tress and wetlands, help to absorb floodwater, reduce erosion, and reduce urban heat island effect. The Resilient Fairfax Plan has strategies relating to natural resources for climate adaptation and resilience. 


Fairfax County Trees

For over 30 years, Fairfax County has been raising awareness about the importance of trees and forests in our community and implementing tree-related policies and programs. Learn about tree care, outreach and education, rules and policies, identification, insects and diseases, volunteer opportunities and more. 


Join the Sustain Fairfax Challenge

Fairfax County is encouraging residents to take climate action into their own hands using BrightAction! This new climate engagement platform makes it simple, easy, and fun to learn about climate solutions and take action through an interactive dashboard. Sign up now to start reducing your environmental impact through progress tracking, daily reminders, and collaboration with friends, family, and colleagues! 


Conservation Assistance Programs

The Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District administers cost-share programs to support homeowners with projects that improve stormwater drainage and water quality, enhance native landscaping, and reduce flood risk. Learn more about these programs and how to apply. 


Helping Our Land Heal: Ecosystem Restoration

The Fairfax County Park Authority has a program to restore natural areas on park lands called Helping Our Land Heal. The program includes 20 projects on 200 acres at 12 different parks. 


Sign up for the Environmental, Climate, and Energy Newsletter

Subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter - dedicated to providing you with the latest news and updates on climate change initiatives and policies. Sign up below and view past newsletters here.

Waste

Repair, Repurpose or Recycle: What to Do About Your Old Appliances

The average household has more than a dozen appliances, like refrigerators, ovens, dryers, microwaves, toasters, blenders and more. What should we do when these appliances reach the end of their useful life or are no longer needed, even if they still work? Do they have to be discarded and wasted? Find out more on our Climate Matters blog!


Waste and Climate Action

Achieving zero waste goals is an important component of lowering our carbon emissions and building resiliency to climate change. Learn more about Fairfax County's climate action efforts around waste - including reducing the amount of waste overall and diverting more of it from incinerators and landfills to waste-to-energy facilities. 


Zero Waste

The best way to minimize waste is to create less of it in the first place! Fairfax County's Zero Waste program works to minimize solid waste in county facilities to close to nothing and to do so through a holistic approach: by rethinking not only how we dispose of materials, but also what we use and how we use it. Learn more about the Zero Waste initiative for government and schools. 


Recycling and Trash

Recycling and environmentally-responsible trash disposal keeps Fairfax County clean, healthy, and sustainable. Learn more about Fairfax County's solid waste programs and policies. 


Waste Checklist

Our Waste checklist provides 10 actions you can take to reduce your household waste and lower your carbon footprint.


Sign up for the Environmental, Climate, and Energy Newsletter

Subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter - dedicated to providing you with the latest news and updates on climate change initiatives and policies. Sign up below and view past newsletters here.

Resources for Businesses

Sustain Fairfax: Your Actions, Our Climate

With your actions and support, we can create a sustainable and resilient Fairfax County — helping fight climate change and protect our community. Find out how your company's actions, like making building energy upgrades or encouraging sustainable transportation, can make a big difference.


Programs for Common-Interest Communities

Building a Green Team

Assembling a group of interested and responsible employees can be a great first step toward establishing a culture of sustainability at your workplace. These groups are often called green teams, but any name will do. At Fairfax County, our employee group is called Fairfax Employees for Environmental Excellence, or FEEE. Based on our experience, we are pleased to share some tips for how to start a green team and outreach ideas that we’ve found successful.


Sign up for the Environmental, Climate, and Energy Newsletter

Subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter - dedicated to providing you with the latest news and updates on climate change initiatives and policies. Sign up below and view past newsletters here.

OEEC News and Events

Upcoming Events

Aug
06

6:00PM, How should Fairfax County get ready for more electric vehicles?…

Below is a list of past events and links to webpages with more information about that event. 

Latest Articles and News Releases

solar programs logos

With a 30% Federal Tax Credit Expiring, Now May be Best Time to Go Solar  Solarize Virginia has extended its sign-up deadline to August 15, 2025, providing homeowners and businesses with additional time to secure solar installations by year’s end. Switch Together, another solar group purchasing program, will launch its latest campaign on July 23 and will accept sign-ups through September 3, 2025. 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 proceed with an installation. In light of the federal tax credit, possible net metering changes, discounted pricing and rising electricity rates, homeowners who delay may miss the opportunity to take full advantage of the biggest incentives available for going solar: Solar systems installed by December 31, 2025 are still eligible for the 30 percent federal income tax credit, a significant savings opportunity that will no longer be available starting in 2026 due to recent changes in federal legislation. But time is running out: with installation timelines stretching to 3-4 months and increasing demand across Virginia, residents are encouraged to sign a contract by the end of August to ensure completion by year’s end. Virginia residents are also facing significant increases in electricity rates. By going solar now, homeowners can sharply reduce their power bills in the future. The current net metering rates are at risk. Dominion Energy has proposed reducing these credits starting in 2026. Systems installed by the end of this year will be grandfathered into current rules, receiving a full 1:1 energy credit for the electricity they send back to the grid. 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. Solarize Virginia is a community-based outreach initiative managed by the Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit headquartered in Charlottesville, Va., that makes solar energy more accessible and affordable. For more information, visit www.SolarizeVa.org “We’ve seen firsthand the positive impact that going solar has on households and the environment,” Katie VanLangen, Co-Executive Director of LEAP and long-time leader of the Solarize Program, states. “By switching now, Virginians can lock in significant savings and protect themselves from rising utility rates, all while contributing to climate goals. Switch Together is supported by a partnership between national nonprofit Solar United Neighbors and multiple cities and counties throughout the United States. As well as making rooftop solar installations more affordable, Switch Together offers home battery storage and EV chargers easier to access. The program offers a reverse auction with qualified installers who compete to offer their most competitive prices. The most recent auction secured an average discount of $6,958. For more information, visit SwitchTogether.com/Solar/FairfaxCounty 
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Fairfax County is now accepting nominations for the 2025 Environmental Excellence Awards, a prestigious award that recognizes exceptional commitment to environmental stewardship. Each year the Environmental Excellence Awards honors those who have made significant contributions towards protecting, improving, and educating about the natural world in Fairfax County. The awards are open to individual residents, organizations, businesses, and county employees whose contributions include: Advancing or supporting the county's environmental goals and policies Dedicating personal time and expertise beyond their usual fiscal or civic responsibilities Demonstrating leadership and serving as role models for others Administered by the Environmental Quality Advisory Council (EQAC) on behalf of the Board of Supervisors, with support from the Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination, the awards aim to motivate and inspire continued dedication to environmental sustainability within the community. To be eligible for the 2025 awards, nominees' achievements should be within the period from June 1, 2024, to May 31, 2025, or span multiple years that include a portion of this timeframe.  To submit a nomination, please complete the online form by August 8, 2025. SUBMIT A NOMINATION For more information about the awards and to view past winners, please visit the Environmental Excellence Awards page.
ribbon cutting
The Charge Up Fairfax program is now accepting applications on a rolling basis! The program is designed to help common-interest communities and other organizations install electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, improving local air quality and driving us toward a more sustainable future. This year, the program has introduced three key changes: Applications are now being accepted continuously, making it easier than ever to participate. Reimbursement grant amounts have been increased, offering greater financial support for those looking to install EV charging stations. Eligibility has expanded beyond homeowner and condo owner associations to include places of worship and other non-profit organizations, recognizing their critical role in providing EV charging access to staff and guests while attending services or events.  With these changes, more organizations can now benefit from technical and financial assistance to install EV charging stations. “EVs have no tailpipe emissions which means cleaner air to breathe along roadways and in neighborhoods and fewer greenhouse gas emissions which cause climate change”, said John Morrill, director of the Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination. “By making EV charging more accessible, we are taking a significant step toward our goal for carbon neutrality by 2050 and for a healthier, more sustainable Fairfax for all.”  “We look forward to seeing more communities and organizations join us in this important effort."  Since the program's inception in 2023, 16 communities have participated in the program. Four communities have successfully completed their charging station installations, with the two most recent groups being: Westwood Village Unit Owners Association, Vienna: Installed two dual-port chargers and are eligible to receive a $5,000 reimbursement.  Reflection Homes Association, Herndon: As the first community located in an equity-designated area, RHA received a $10,000 reimbursement to install a dual-port charging station. Ribbon cutting at Reflection Homes Association's new dual-port charging station, installed with the support of Charge Up Fairfax These installations mark significant milestones in the county's ongoing efforts to encourage EV adoption by expanding community EV charging infrastructure. Michael H., president of Reflection Homes Association and an EV owner, said the funding and technical guidance provided by the program were key in convincing the board to consider installing EV chargers. He said the installation of chargers will help incentivize more residents of the neighborhood to consider buying an EV, which is good for the environment. Penderbrook Community Association in Springfield District was another recent success story — installing 4 dual port chargers for their community of over 1,700 single family homes, townhouses and condos. Not only is it a significant benefit to the residents, but it is also an amenity for the guests who use the HOA’s golf course, said David Braun, president of the board of directors. Braun said the Charge Up Fairfax program was particularly instrumental in helping the community navigate the regulatory process and coordinate with the various stakeholders. “Having someone that could shepherd us through that was really important to us, and we felt like Fairfax County was a good partner,” Braun said. Organizations interested in applying for the Charge Up Fairfax program can now do so. The program offers flexible options, including a grant-only program, a full-service program, and a combination with Dominion Energy’s Level 2 EV Charging Program, to suit the diverse needs of applicants. Organizations that are accepted into the program will receive a site visit and assessment from an engineering firm, paid for by Fairfax County. If the organization decides to proceed with the purchase and installation of Level 2 electric vehicle charging stations, the organization will hire a contractor to perform the necessary permitting, electrical upgrades, installation of equipment and final inspection.  For more information about the Charge Up Fairfax program, application details, and to sign up for updates, please visit the website or email OEECElectricVehicles@fairfaxcounty.gov  

Climate Matters

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.


Environmental, Climate, and Energy Newsletter

The Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination releases a monthly e-newsletter. Our Environmental, Climate, and Energy newsletter is dedicated to providing you with the latest news and updates on climate change initiatives and policies - directly to your email inbox. Visit our Newsletters webpage view past issues or sign up to receive the newsletter.


Buildings and Energy

Buildings and Climate Action

More than 50% of Fairfax County’s greenhouse gas emissions are associated with energy and natural gas use in buildings, often referred to as “stationary emissions.” Learn more about buildings and emission on our Climate Action Dashboard.


Energy Supply and Climate Action

Increasing the amount of renewable energy provided by utilities or generated by customers themselves can significantly reduce the greenhouse gas emissions related to energy supply. Learn more about energy supply and emissions on our Climate Action Dashboard.


County Government Energy Data

Fairfax County maintains more than 500 buildings and 11 million square feet of building space. The Fairfax County Energy Dashboard provides energy use, cost, and emissions data for its buildings and facilities.


Green Buildings

Fairfax County sets minimum green building standards for new construction and major renovations to county-owned and operated buildings. By constructing buildings designed to use less energy, Fairfax County can save taxpayer dollars and reduce our carbon footprint. Green buildings do more than just reduce energy use - they also address water use, waste, siting, indoor air quality, and material sourcing.


Energy Conservation Assistance Program

If you are part of a common-interest community or charitable or nonprofit group, such as a homeowners association, condominium owners association, place of worship providing community services, or other nonprofit or recreational organization in Fairfax County looking to make energy efficiency upgrades, the Energy Conservation Assistance Program for Energy may be for you! 


Home Energy and Solar Resources

Check out our resources below to become a home energy pro! Need one in a different language or want to watch videos related to these topics? Visit our Resources for Residents webpage.


Sign up for the Environmental, Climate, and Energy Newsletter

Subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter - dedicated to providing you with the latest news and updates on climate change initiatives and policies. Sign up below and view past newsletters here.

Climate Plans, Policies, and Initiatives

Operational Energy Strategy (OES)

The Operational Energy Strategy promotes cost-effective solutions and an energy-conscious culture for county government operations, buildings and fleet vehicles. The plan sets goals, targets and actions across major focus areas - including building energy and water use, fleet electrification, and waste management.

 

 


Environmental Vision

Fairfax County’s environment is resilient, but not indestructible. The Environmental Vision recognizes that we have a responsibility to be good stewards to ensure a sustainable future and helps to guide our environmental sustainability initiatives and programs. Two key principles direct the vision: conserving our limited natural resources and providing the resources needed to protect our environment.


Green Buildings

Fairfax County sets minimum green building standards for new construction and major renovations to county-owned and operated buildings. By constructing buildings designed to use less energy, Fairfax County can save taxpayer dollars and reduce our carbon footprint. Green buildings do more than just reduce energy use - they also address water use, waste, siting, indoor air quality, and material sourcing.


Plastic Bag Tax

The plastic bag tax is a 5-cent tax charged to customers for every disposable plastic bag used at convenience stores, drug stores, and grocery stores in Fairfax County. Since plastics do not biodegrade like other natural materials, the purpose of the tax is to curb our collective use of disposable plastic bags and to reduce the amount of plastic waste in our local waterways, roadways, and open spaces and the damage it causes.


Historic Environmental Policies

The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors has enacted several policies and initiatives designed to advance environmentally sound and energy efficient activities at the county level and beyond. Some policies have reached the end of their implementation phases or have been superseded by newer plans or policies.


Sign up for the Environmental, Climate, and Energy Newsletter

Subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter - dedicated to providing you with the latest news and updates on climate change initiatives and policies. Sign up below and view past newsletters here.

Sustainable Transportation

Transportation and Climate Action

The transportation sector is the second-largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in Fairfax County, accounting for about 43% of total GHGs. Learn more about what that means, how that relates to Fairfax County's climate plans, and ways to take action.


Fairfax County Commuter Services

Fairfax County Commuter Services (FCCS) is a Transportation Demand Management (TDM) program that advocates alternatives to drive-alone commuting for residents and employees in the county.


Active Transportation

Fairfax County Department of Transportation's Active Transportation Program works in coordination with other county and state agencies to improve transportation infrastructure such as bike lanes, sidewalks, crosswalks and trails and to encourage safe and efficient walking, biking, scooting and other active ways that people move around Fairfax County.


Sustainable Transportation Resources

Check out the resources below on switching to an EV and exploring multi-modal options that will have you driving less and riding or walking more. Need one in a different language or want to watch some videos? Visit our Resources for Residents webpage.


Sign up for the Environmental, Climate, and Energy Newsletter

Subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter - dedicated to providing you with the latest news and updates on climate change initiatives and policies. Sign up below and view past newsletters here.

Resources for Residents

Sustain Fairfax: Your Actions, Our Climate

With your actions and support, we can create a sustainable and resilient Fairfax County — helping fight climate change and protect our community. By taking action now, you can reduce your energy bill, help cut emissions and make our community sustainable for everyone.


Join the Sustain Fairfax Challenge and Track Your Climate Action

Fairfax County is encouraging residents to take climate action into their own hands using BrightAction! This new climate engagement platform makes it simple, easy, and fun to learn about climate solutions and take action through an interactive dashboard. Sign up now to start reducing your environmental impact through progress tracking, daily reminders, and collaboration with friends, family, and colleagues


Climate Action Checklists

We created checklists to help you adopt sustainable habits and make environmentally conscious choices that can also save you money. These lists highlight climate actions, all focused on a different theme, along with their cost up front and yearly savings in both money and carbon emissions. Plus, links to incentives and resources to make taking actions cheaper and easier! Translated versions of these checklists can be found on our Translated Resources webpage.


Electric-Powered Lawn Equipment

Gas-powered lawn equipment - such as leaf blowers, lawn mowers, and other devices used to clear debris and maintain landscaping - has negative impacts on the environment and poses an immediate and quantifiable risk to our health. County facilities are making the switch to electric powered lawn equipment. Will you join us?


Sign up for the Environmental, Climate, and Energy Newsletter

Subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter - dedicated to providing you with the latest news and updates on climate change initiatives and policies. Sign up below and view past newsletters here. 

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