Overview
- Residents across the state report winter electric charges that topped rent or mortgages, forcing cutbacks, loans, and in some cases displacement.
- Labor Department data show electricity prices rose 4.8% nationwide over the past year, while piped natural gas climbed 10.9%, squeezing heating budgets.
- West Virginia generates about 87% of its electricity from aging coal plants, a mix that blocks cheaper options and helps drive higher rates.
- Gov. Patrick Morrisey announced a $4 billion data center in Berkeley County, and ratepayers worry large server farms will add demand and lift local bills.
- The White House says cutting electricity prices is a top priority and touts expanded coal and natural gas as its approach.