VA SB598

Amends § 56-585.5 of the Code of Virginia to change terminology from "accelerated renewable energy buyer" to "accelerated clean energy buyer" throughout the statute governing electric utility renewable energy requirements.

Maintains existing renewable energy portfolio standard (RPS) requirements with Phase II Utilities reaching 100% renewable energy by 2045 and Phase I Utilities reaching 100% by 2050.

Requires Phase II Utilities to procure 16,100 megawatts of solar/onshore wind capacity and up to 5,200 megawatts of offshore wind generation by December 31, 2035, with at least 35% from non-utility-owned facilities.

Defines "zero-carbon electricity" as electricity generated by any generating unit that does not emit carbon dioxide as a by-product of combusting fuel, and requires retirement of all carbon-emitting generating units by December 31, 2045.

Commercial/industrial customers with aggregate load over 25 megawatts qualify as "accelerated clean energy buyers" and may enter separate arrangements outside standard RPS Program requirements.