Public Comment Set For Fort Martin Gas-Fired Power Plant 

The Public Service Commission of West Virginia has scheduled a public comment hearing for construction of a gas-electric generation plant, in Monongalia County, and three solar energy projects.  

The hearing is set for 5:30 p.m. July 15 at the PSC hearing room in Charleston at 201 Brooks St., but participants can also join virtually.  

Monongahela Power Co. and The Potomac Edison Co. filed an application in February to construct a 1,200-megawatt gas plant next to the existing coal-fired Fort Martin Power Station. The proposal also includes the construction of 70 megawatts of solar generation at three sites in Albright, Preston County and Davis, Tucker County as well as Weirton, although it was unclear if the facility will be in Brooke or Hancock County.  

The companies are seeking an initial surcharge to pay for the projects, which would result in an average increase in customer bills of 0.9%, or $1.18 a month. 

In their filing, the power companies state they are already falling behind actual grid load, and the switch to gas and solar is needed to keep pace with rising demand. Without additional generation, the companies expected a shortfall in electrical-generation capacity beginning in 2029. 

Those who wish to participate in the public comment hearing should register with the commission by 4 p.m. on July 10. Registration may be made through the Microsoft Teams meeting link at: https://bit.ly/wvpsc20260715. You may also register by calling Alexis Weimer at (304) 340-0822 or Andrew Gallagher at (304) 340-0820; or by emailing aweimer@psc.state.wv.us or agallagher@psc.state.wv.us. 

Those who wish to attend in person should sign up to speak prior to 5:30 p.m.   

As an alternative to speaking, written comments regarding this case may be submitted by mail or hand delivery to the Executive Secretary, P.O. Box 812, Charleston, WV 25323, or online at www.psc.state.wv.us by clicking on “Submit a Comment” in the left column and following the directions provided. All written comments should be marked as pertaining to Case No. 26-0108-E-CN. 

More information on this case can be found on the PSC website. Click on “Case Information” and access Case No. 26-0108-E-CN.