Resources > Integrated Resource Plans in West Virginia

Integrated Resource Plans in West Virginia

• Guide

January 20, 2026

What are Integrated Resource Plans (IRPs)?

Every 5 years, West Virginia’s energy companies present a plan to the Public Service Commission (PSC) on how they will make enough power. That plan is called an Integrated Resource Plan (IRP). The IRP includes information on how much power West Virginia will need, the sources of energy the utility will use to meet the demand, and how much their plan will cost the company and ratepayers. 

From the utility’s perspective, they want to produce enough energy for the state while taking advantage of as many shortcuts as they can. This helps them maximize their profits. 

However, for West Virginia families, affordable and reliable electricity is at the top of the list — not shareholder profits. In fact, 84% of West Virginians support energy policies that reduce utility bills through renewable energy and energy efficiency. IRPs can — and should — make smart choices to ensure clean, affordable, and reliable energy for ratepayers.

Why IRPs matter for your electric bill

When you make a grocery list, you try to find ways to save money while making sure your family is fed. An Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) is similar. When a utility makes an IRP, they try to keep costs low while making sure West Virginia’s energy needs will be met. 

IRPs can lower or raise your electric bill, depending on the types of energy they include. Diversifying energy sources is one way that utilities can make West Virginians money, support local jobs, and keep electric service reliable. Renewable energy, like solar, is a valuable piece of the puzzle. Solar is low-cost, and the quickest way to add new energy to the grid. Rooftop solar is especially good, since it helps West Virginians take ownership of their own energy needs. 

Unfortunately, West Virginia’s energy companies have presented IRPs for 2026 that could raise costs on families and businesses. Solar United Neighbors is working hard to encourage utilities and the Public Service Commission to make smarter choices for West Virginia’s future.

How you can shape the future of energy in West Virginia

Have you been feeling the pinch in your budget from rising electricity prices? Have you been affected by unreliable service? You can speak up and tell our decisionmakers at the Public Service Commission to put working families first. Let’s make sure our utilities are working for us, not the other way around!