Appalachian Power says appeal could threaten customer affordability

CHARLESTON, W.Va., May 19, 2026 - Appalachian Power Company (APCo) is disappointed by the recently filed appeal challenging the Public Service Commission of West Virginia's (PSC) April 16 order because it overlooks the benefits cited by the PSC and could make it harder to keep electric service affordable for customers.

Under the order, the approved adjustment includes an inflation-based increase totaling $40.1 million, or about 2% of overall revenue. By comparison, a traditional base rate filing could exceed $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, APCo president and chief operating officer. "That is why this outcome matters. It helps us continue making the investments needed to keep power reliable while avoiding a much larger increase that would have been even harder on the families and businesses we serve."

The PSC's order followed a thorough review and reflected a more measured approach that helps limit the impact on customers while still supporting continued investment in the electric system that serves communities across West Virginia every day.

"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 will respond through the appropriate legal channels and remains focused on serving customers safely, reliably and as affordably as possible.