15-02-2025
Governor Morrisey discusses lowering utility rates in West Virginia
CHARLESTON, WV (WVNS) — West Virginians pay a gas bill that's nearly 43 percent higher than the national average and 27 percent higher than rates in neighboring Kentucky, according to data collected by the group Real Estate Statistics.
The data shows that West Virginians pay a higher monthly electricity bill than residents of Virginia by about four percent.
West Virginians pay cell phone rates similar to those in states like California and New York, which have more expansive infrastructure.
On Thursday, Gov. Patrick Morrisey said bringing new businesses, including large data centers, to West Virginia could also attract additional utility companies.
The competition would result in lower utility rates for West Virginians, the governor said.
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He said he also plans to explore other options for offering relief.
'I think the current system needs to be changed, and we need to make sure that people get the relief they need and they're not overpaying for the power needs, the electricity needs that they have. We're going to keep looking at different ways to make sure West Virignia's electricity prices are even more competitive with the states that we touch,' said Governor Morrisey.
Study shows West Virginians pay most for utility bills
Morrisey's 'Backyard Brawl' plan aims to make the Mountain State competitive economically competitive with Kentucky, Virginia, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Maryland.
He said on Thursday, February 13, 2025, that governors from neighboring states have expressed friendly support for the competition.
Real Estate Statistics shows West Virginia's water and sewer rates are among the lowest in the United 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
