WV PSC approves Appalachian, Wheeling power surcharge increase

CHARLESTON, WV (WOWK) – Two power companies will soon be modifying their rates, according to the Public Service Commission of West Virginia.

The PSC says they’ve authorized Appalachian Power Company and its subsidiary Wheeling Power Company to modify their rates to “comply with federal environmental standards” at three of their power plants. The modified rates will go into effect on Sept. 1, 2024.

According to the PSC, the modification will involve an increase to an existing surcharge by $35.6 million. PSC officials say that number is slightly down from the $37.2 million the companies originally asked for on Oct. 20, 2023.

WOWK 13 News is working to learn more about how those rates will directly impact the companies’ customers. We’ve reached out to Appalachian Power Company and will update this article when we hear back.

The money from the increase would go toward financing internal modifications to three coal-powered electric plants – John E. Amos in Putnam County, Mountaineer in Mason County and Mitchell in Marshall County. Those modifications are required by federal environmental standards.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOWK 13 News.