2026-03-02 15:01:45 -0500
To: https://www.psc.state.wv.us/
Urgent!! Utilities are out of control
PETITION TO LOWER UTILITY RATES IN WEST VIRGINIA
To: The West Virginia Public Service Commission, West Virginia State Legislature, and Utility Providers
Subject: A Call for Action to Lower Utility Rates for West Virginians
We, the undersigned citizens of West Virginia, respectfully submit this petition calling for immediate action to reduce the rising utility rates affecting our homes, businesses, and communities. The cost of electricity, natural gas, water, and other essential utilities has become unsustainable for many families across our state. We urge the Public Service Commission, our lawmakers, and utility providers to take the necessary steps to ensure that utility rates are fair, reasonable, and reflect the needs of the people they serve.
WHEREAS:
Rising Utility Costs: Over the past several years, utility rates have increased significantly, placing an undue financial burden on residents and businesses alike. Many families, especially those with fixed or low incomes, are struggling to meet these growing costs.
Economic Hardship: West Virginia, like many states, is still recovering from the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The rising utility costs have compounded the financial stress felt by many residents, leaving them with fewer resources to meet basic needs such as food, healthcare, and education.
Disproportionate Impact on Vulnerable Populations: Lower-income families, seniors, and disabled individuals are disproportionately impacted by utility rate increases, with many facing difficult choices between paying utility bills and meeting other essential needs.
Public Utility Accountability: As a regulated industry, utilities must be held accountable for their rate structures and profit margins. Rate increases should not be implemented without thorough justification and without providing sufficient relief options for those who are most vulnerable.
THEREFORE, WE ASK:
Immediate Rate Reduction: We request that the West Virginia Public Service Commission investigate the current utility rate structures and implement a fair reduction to bring rates down to a more affordable level for all West Virginians.
Transparent Rate Review Process: We call for an open, transparent review of utility rate hikes, with public hearings and opportunities for citizens to voice their concerns. It is crucial that the process is accountable to the people, rather than driven by corporate interests.
Increased Protections for Low-Income Families: We urge lawmakers and utility companies to work together to create expanded programs for low-income residents, including energy assistance programs, sliding-scale payment options, and protections against disconnections during financial hardship.
Promotion of Renewable Energy Alternatives: We encourage the exploration of renewable energy solutions, which could reduce dependence on traditional utilities and lower costs in the long term. West Virginia has vast natural resources that could provide a pathway to cleaner, more affordable energy.
Accountability for Utility Profits: We request that the Public Service Commission ensure that any rate increases are justified by actual operational costs and not simply aimed at increasing the profitability of utility companies.
WE THE UNDERSIGNED,
Are calling on the Public Service Commission, utility providers, and our elected officials to take immediate and effective steps to reduce utility rates, protect vulnerable populations, and ensure that all West Virginians have access to affordable and reliable utility services.
We believe that no family, business, or community should have to choose between paying for essential utilities and other basic needs. Together, we can ensure that West Virginia's utility services are affordable, equitable, and sustainable for all.
SIGNATURES:
Why is this important?
WV has some of the highest rates for utilities despite being one of the poorest states in the nation. Families are struggling with payments and shut off notices. The programs that help are underfunded and only assist the most destitute among us despite the lower/middle class who are picking up the slack. Utilities are needed to live our daily lives and we are witnessing more and more shut off notices. Utilities should be a human right. .
How it will be delivered
Social media