Advocates Push for Ratepayer Protections as Electricity Costs Climb in West Virginia

Charleston, WV- With electricity costs continuing to rise across West Virginia, affordability advocates are urging lawmakers to adopt stronger consumer protections, including a proposed Ratepayer’s Bill of Rights.
Supporters say House Bill 5648 marks a meaningful step in that direction. The measure would expand bill‑assistance options to help prevent shutoffs, legalize small‑scale household solar systems, and give residents a clearer path to participate in Public Service Commission proceedings that affect utility rates.
Courtney MacDonald, a coalition coordinator with West Virginians for Energy Freedom, said the bill would bring long‑needed transparency and accountability to the rate‑setting process.
“It creates stronger guardrails,” MacDonald said, “so that when rates do go up, there is more transparency, public input and real consumer protection — that doesn’t exist right now.”
The bill remains in committee and has not yet been brought to a vote. Its consideration comes as West Virginians continue to face the highest utility costs in the nation, with average monthly bills topping $700. Advocates say many households are being forced to choose between paying for electricity and covering basic needs like medicine and groceries.
Thursday has been designated as Affordability Day at the State Capitol in Charleston, where organizers plan to highlight the growing strain of energy costs on families.
Meanwhile, the Trump administration has signaled continued support for coal. Earlier this month, the U.S. Department of Energy announced $175 million in funding for several Appalachian states, including West Virginia, to help extend the life of coal‑fired power plants in the region.