PSC Takes Appalachian Power Rate Increase Off The Table, For Now

The West Virginia Public Service Commission late Wednesday dismissed Appalachian Power’s application for a $265 million revenue increase.

It would have raised residential customer rates by 17 percent, or roughly $28 a month.

The commission’s docket was peppered with comments in opposition, from residents, local governments and school districts.

Ultimately, the PSC found problems with the Appalachian Power’s August filing and dismissed it because it was missing information.

Other, smaller increases the PSC approved took effect this month.

Karen Wissing, a spokeswoman, said Appalachian Power is looking at the options presented in the order.

“We appreciate the opportunity to revisit the filing to see if there are ways to reduce the impact on our customers from the millions of dollars invested in the state to improve the plants, poles and wires that deliver the energy and power West Virginia’s economy,” she said.

Emmett Pepper, policy director for Energy Efficient West Virginia, said his group would be watching closely at what the company proposes. Among other things, the group objected to a potential reduction in credit rooftop solar customers receive for the power they send to the grid.

“We also hope that AEP reconsiders some of its proposals before it files another case like this. Increasing rates on families, small businesses, churches, and schools by 15-25% can really harm our communities,” Pepper said, referring to Appalachian Power parent company American Electric Power.