McAuliffe frames climate change and rising sea levels as more than an environmental issue that could swallow Tangier Island in coming decades and that already causes extreme flooding around Norfolk. It’s a national security issue because of the state’s large naval installations, he often says.

And by turning to cleaner energy sources, McAuliffe sees a way to lure new business, especially manufacturers of such technology as solar panels. He previously directed state agencies to derive at least 8 percent of all their electricity from solar power, another move to try to boost an industry that has thrived in neighboring states but has barely taken hold in Virginia.

“Cheap, reliable, environmentally friendly electricity can and will be the lifeblood of our new Virginia economy,” McAuliffe said.

Between 2005 and 2014, Virginia reduced its carbon emissions from power plants by 21 percent. But power plants are still responsible for about a third of the carbon dioxide pollution in the state.

The governor’s order drew praise from several environmental groups, yet some worried that it does not go far enough.