West Virginians For Energy Freedom Applauds PSC Decision to Enhance Energy Efficiency Programs

Charleston, WV – The West Virginia Citizen Action Group (CAG), Solar United Neighbors (SUN), and Energy Efficient West Virginia (EEWV) applaud the West Virginia Public Service Commission’s (PSC) recent decision to significantly enhance energy efficiency opportunities for families and small businesses that are American Electric Power (AEP) customers.

In a significant settlement approved by the PSC, annual spending on energy efficiency initiatives will be doubled, paving the way for more West Virginians to lower their electric bills through improved efficiency in their homes and businesses. This new agreement will launch programs starting in 2025, which include:

• Low-Income Residential Efficiency Improvements: Targeted upgrades to help low-income families reduce their energy usage and costs.
• Home Energy Assessments and Rebates: Energy audits and rebates for all residential customers to facilitate energy-saving improvements that are specific to their home.
• Multi Family Home and Small Business Efficiency Improvements: Specific enhancements for multifamily residences housing low-income tenants and support for small businesses to upgrade their energy efficiency.
• Transition to Efficient Appliances: Assistance for families and businesses to switch from propane, wood, and some other fuels to efficient electric furnaces and appliances.
• Peak Demand Reduction: Initiatives to minimize peak energy demand, thus lowering costs for all ratepayers.
• Educational Kits for Schools: Distribution of materials to educate children and their families on energy-saving practices.

“I am glad that AEP puts a priority on maintaining and expanding their energy efficiency programs,” said Robin Blakeman, executive director of EEWV. “These initiatives are critical for helping West Virginia residents and small business owners keep their energy costs affordable.”

This settlement was reached through collaborative efforts among the intervening parties, with crucial testimony provided by CAG, SUN, and EEWV; as well as the PSC Staff. In addition to continuing existing programs, the settlement introduces new initiatives for small businesses and educational outreach in schools.

“Kudos to the Commission for approving these really important programs that help people address their energy bills by becoming more efficient,” said Emmett Pepper, policy director at EEWV. “A big thank you especially goes to the PSC Staff and AEP, who worked collaboratively to come to a good settlement that will benefit ratepayers.”

EEWV encourages anyone struggling with high electric bills to take advantage of these programs. Most bills are in the range of $150 to $250 per month, so families outside that range have the greatest opportunity to benefit . AEP customers can get assistance at the AEP website, takechargewv.com.

Customers of the other major utilities in the state, Mon Power and Potomac Edison (FirstEnergy), do not have access to any similar programs, other than a small amount of low-income weatherization.

CAG, SUN, and EEWV, are members of the West Virginians for Energy Freedom coalition of community organizations, local businesses, municipalities, elected officials, and residents dedicated to advocating for smart energy policies and ratepayer’s rights in West Virginia. More information about the coalition is available at energyfreedomwv.org.

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