Date: February 20, 2026In a decision that is sure to impact residents and businesses across the state, the West Virginia Public Utility Regulation Board voted today to approve a rate increase for the state's largest provider, Mountain Power.The decision comes after months of deliberation and debate, with the utility company arguing that the rate increase is necessary to cover rising operating costs and to make critical infrastructure upgrades. Mountain Power has stated that without the rate increase, they would be unable to maintain the high level of service that their customers have come to expect.Despite the company's arguments, the decision has been met with criticism from consumer advocacy groups and some state lawmakers, who argue that the rate increase will place an unnecessary burden on already struggling West Virginia residents. Many have pointed to the fact that West Virginia already has some of the highest energy costs in the country, and that a rate increase could push many families over the brink financially.In response to these concerns, the Public Utility Regulation Board has stated that they will be closely monitoring the situation to ensure that the rate increase is fair and justified. The Board has also encouraged Mountain Power to work with customers who may be struggling to pay their bills as a result of the rate increase.While the decision to approve the rate increase is sure to be controversial, it underscores the challenges facing West Virginia's public utility sector. As the state grapples with aging infrastructure and increasing energy demands, finding a balance between providing reliable service and keeping costs affordable for consumers will continue to be a thorny issue for years to come.