Dominion Virginia Power installing solar project on roof of Virginia Union University building

Dominion Virginia Power is adding its first solar power demonstration site in central Virginia.

The Richmond-based energy provider says it is installing 240 solar panels on the rooftop of Virginia Union University's student center.

Officials say the system will be capable of generating about 70 kilowatts of electricity, which is enough to power nearly 18 homes.

It's part of Dominion's Solar Partnership Program that will generate enough power for up to 7,500 homes when fully implemented.

The company is allowed to construct and operate up to 30 megawatts of solar facilities on leased rooftops or on the grounds of commercial businesses and public properties in its service area.

Dominion already has completed installations at the Canon Industrial Resource Technologies facility in Gloucester and at Old Dominion University in Norfolk.