CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Appalachian Power says it is disappointed by a recently filed appeal challenging a rate adjustment approved by the Public Service Commission of West Virginia, warning the move could make it more difficult to keep electric service affordable for customers.
The appeal targets the PSC’s April 16 order approving an inflation-based rate adjustment for Appalachian Power. According to the company, the approved increase totals approximately $40.1 million, representing about a 2% increase in overall revenue.
Appalachian Power officials argued the approved adjustment is significantly smaller than what could have resulted from a traditional base rate case, which the company said may have exceeded $200 million.
“We know a lot of our customers are already under real financial pressure, and we understand how important it is to keep monthly bills as manageable as possible,” said Brian Abraham, president and chief operating officer of Appalachian Power.
Abraham said the PSC-approved plan allows the company to continue investing in the electric grid while limiting the financial impact on customers.
The company also said the PSC’s order followed what it described as a thorough review process and was designed to provide customers with more predictable electric rates while avoiding another base rate filing in the near future.
“The PSC-approved process gives customers more predictable rates and eliminates the need of another base rate filing in the near term,” Abraham said. “That kind of stability can make a real difference for people who are trying to manage their household or business budgets, and this appeal threatens that stability.”
Appalachian Power said it plans to respond to the appeal through the legal process while continuing its focus on providing safe, reliable, and affordable electric service across West Virginia.
