WVPSC approves interim solution to keep Pleasants Power Station open

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WTAP) - Hours before their deadline to make a decision, the West Virginia Public Service Commission approved an Interim Solution Proposal to keep the Pleasants Power Station from closing.

The decision from the PSC gives Mon Power 12 months to weigh its options and decide whether to purchase the plant. During that time, Mon Power ratepayers will pay an estimated $3 million per month surcharge to cover the costs of keeping the plant operational, although the plant will stop producing electricity after May 31.

Pleasants County Commissioner Jay Powell told WTAP that while he didn’t like the idea of saddling ratepayers with a burden, he believes the value offered by the plant is a worthwhile investment for the state. “There’s such a need still for reliable, consistent energy, and we provide 1300 megawatts,” Powell said. “Power plants are going away, and the more power plants that go away in our region means the more vulnerable we are during, when Mother Nature wreaks havoc, such as the polar vortex this last Christmas.”

Powell said that while he’s pleased with the PSC’s decision . . . it’s just one hurdle among several that will need to be overcome in order to keep the plant operational in the long term.

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