Senators debate municipal aggregation pilot to lower Appalachian Power customers' bills

Patrons and witnesses spent more than an hour debating Senate Bill 1281, a bill that would authorize a municipal aggregation pilot in Appalachian Power Company’s (APCO) territory to let localities negotiate power supply on behalf of residents and businesses.

The nut graf: Supporters say municipal aggregation can lower bills, offer price stability and consumer protections, and give local governments tools to procure cheaper or cleaner electricity; Appalachian Power and other opponents said the proposal risks customer protection gaps, potential cost‑shifts and planning complications.

Sen. Hackworth, sponsor of SB 1281, argued the measure would create a temporary pilot allowing local governments in APCO territory to aggregate customers for procurement from competitive suppliers and would require the State Corporation Commission to analyze benefits and potential adverse impacts. He said the…