You Made the Difference at the Public Service Commission!

Your Voices Changed the Outcome

In late August and early September, the West Virginia Public Service Commission (PSC) issued major decisions in response to AEP’s proposed $250 million rate hike and other proposals. Thanks to the record-breaking 5,000+ comments, testimony at hearings, and organizing across the state, the final order slashed the requested increase by nearly two-thirds. Instead of paying an extra $24 each month, families will see a much smaller increase, possibly a decrease — and new protections that put people first.

This outcome belongs to you. West Virginians for Energy Freedom is proud to stand alongside so many residents, businesses, and communities who stepped up to protect our energy future.

What the PSC Decided

Here are some of the most important wins:

• Low-Income Protections Strengthened

  • Dollar Energy Fund increased from $250,000 to $1 million annually.

  • Assistance limit raised from $300 to $500 per customer.

  • Year-round access to the program, not just in winter.

  • Reconnection charges cut in half, with stricter oversight.

  • The PSC will now study discounted summer rates for low-income households.

• Solar Rights Preserved

  • 1:1 credit for solar net metering is ending, but…

  • Current solar customers are grandfathered in for longer than AEP wanted.

  • New solar owners will still receive a fair credit (about 12.4¢/kWh, two-thirds of retail value).

  • Solar remains a viable choice for families and businesses wanting control over their energy.

• Energy Efficiency Supported

  • Municipalities can now save money with LED streetlights, something long overdue.

  • Improved the time-of-use rates, which are an opt-in program for small businesses and families who want to lower bills by shifting use to off-peak times; and reducing costs for all ratepayers.

• Accountability for AEP

  • AEP will be required to keep closer track of its costs, allowing us and others to look closely at whether they are operating in the most cost-effective manner for ratepayers.

Why This Matters

This case shows the power of public engagement. West Virginians are tired of skyrocketing bills, unreliable service, and utilities putting profits over people. The PSC’s decision reflects what happens when we speak with one voice: stronger protections for low-income families, fair treatment for solar, and smarter policies that let communities save money.

The fuel case (aka “ENEC” case) had a good outcome, as well. While the PSC did not rule on the concerning $150 million in losses found to have occurred over the past two years, it did put accountability measures in place that will ensure that advocates will have the full picture to precisely address the problem next year. Additionally, the PSC rejected proposals by another party that would have cost ratepayers more by running expensive power plants too often.

It goes to show you how engaged people are around these issues. More than 5,000 West Virginians took the time to speak out because they know what’s at stake. We think that's more than any other case in PSC history. Residents and businesses are tired of seeing their bills go up and paying for unreliable service. Keeping the lights on shouldn’t be a universal struggle.

Thank You

This win would not have been possible without you. Whether you signed a petition, submitted comments, testified at a hearing, or simply shared information with friends and neighbors — you helped protect West Virginians from unnecessary rate hikes and safeguard our ability to choose clean, affordable energy.

What’s Next

AEP’s customers still have one pending outcome — “securitization” — which will determine how costs are spread out over time. The PSC ruled on the case, but the details have not been finalized. For now, rates will stay unchanged. It may be early 2026 before the rate impacts are finalized. WV4EF and our partners will continue to fight for fair rates and hold utilities accountable.

Stay tuned for updates, and keep your voice ready. Together, we are building a stronger, fairer energy future for West Virginia.

Call to Action: Keep Up the Momentum

More and more West Virginians are signing the Ratepayer Bill of Rights — a powerful petition that demands the PSC treat all residents and businesses fairly and transparently when making decisions about our energy future. Add your name today and help us keep the pressure on!

What else can I do to make my voice heard?

To make your voice heard, you can:

Tell Your Story

Tell your story about how this rate increase will affect you!

Know your Rights

Speak with US

Speak with a WV4EF staff member about becoming active. 

• Interested in having a training about energy freedom and rate increases to your area? 

• Want to write a letter to the local newspaper? 

• Want to host a protest? 

• Want to put up a billboard about electric rates? 

Let’s talk. You can sign up for a time to speak with our coalition staff by emailing info@energyfreedomwv.org. We want to help you accomplish your goals to bring more energy freedom to West Virginia. We need to all work together to fight the powerful interests that cause our bills to keep going up!

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