We, the undersigned, call on our elected officials to take urgent action to lower AEP electric rates, which have become an unsustainable financial burden for families, small businesses, and communities across Southwest Virginia.

I am one of the many individuals who have experienced a sharp increase in our Appalachian Electric Power bills. This situation calls for concern because it places undue financial stress on households, particularly for those living on low or fixed incomes. It is estimated that one in three American households are experiencing ‘energy burden’ where they spend a significant portion of their income on energy costs, according to the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy. This disproportionate impact calls for immediate action to review pricing policies and implement measures to reduce the cost of Appalachian Electric Power bills. 

We demand that our local, state, and federal representatives:

 1. Implement Rate Caps: Introduce regulatory measures to cap electric rates and ensure fair pricing for consumers.

 2. Promote Renewable Energy: Invest in and incentivize renewable energy sources to reduce long-term costs and dependence on fossil fuels.

 3. Increase Transparency: Require AEP to provide clear justification for rate increases and create an independent body to monitor pricing practices.

 4. Assist Low-Income Households: Expand financial assistance programs for vulnerable populations struggling to pay their electric bills.

The current rate structure is unfair and unsustainable. We urge our leaders to stand with the people they represent and take meaningful action to hold AEP accountable and protect consumers from excessive costs.

By signing this petition, we express our collective voice and demand that our elected officials act swiftly to address this urgent issue. We also represent a collective of individuals that will vote for who takes action on this matter. Electricity is a necessity. Please add your voice to this movement and advocate the need for lower Appalachian Electric Power bills.