January Newsletter

JANUARY 2024 NEWSLETTER

Photo by 84 Agency

Solar Success ☀️

Last weekend, solar supporters across the state came together to speak out at a public hearing and attend the passion-driven Save Our Solar Rally at the West Virginia State Capitol. They also sent more comments to the Public Service Commission, protesting potential changes to net metering rules. In total, about 1500 people have submitted comments! When it comes to energy rights, West Virginia cares and so do we!

LEARN MORE

In the News

Dozens at PSC hearing oppose FirstEnergy solar credit plan

Dozens of Mon Power and Potomac Edison customers and solar advocates from throughout West Virginia spoke during a public hearing Monday.

READ MORE

Solar panels could soon installed on the roof of Wayne County school buildings

Wayne County Schools has partnered with Solar Holler for a unique educational opportunity for students, but it's also a project that is expected to save the school system tens of thousands of dollars in energy costs.

READ MORE

Clean energy jobs are coming to West Virginia, but who’s going to work them?

A flood of federal investment could spur new development and job creation in the Mountain State. But first, more workers need to be trained for the industry.

READ MORE

Recent Events

Save Our Solar Rally

Over 100 West Virginians came together this past Saturday demanding the continuation of 1:1 net metering rules, the legalization of community solar, and legislative support for solar-friendly policy.

Mark Your Calendar

E-Day at the WV State Capitol

February 13 | 9am–2pm

The West Virginia Environmental Council is hosting E-day, a day where West Virginians come together to take legislative action at the State Capitol. Register and join us for a chance to see the legislature at work, tour the Capitol, meet environmental groups, and advocate for WVEC’s legislative priorities. Be sure to stop by the WV4EF table to share your own stories. We will be collecting testimonials to share with our state leaders to emphasize the importance of access to fair and affordable energy. Bring your friends, bring your family, bring your electricity bill!

SOAR Mutual Aid Fair at Kanawha United Presbyterian Church

February 21 | 6–7:30pm

Come celebrate at Charleston's 30th Mutual Aid Fair. The fair is an opportunity to get to know your neighbors and access helpful resources. Past events have included the distribution of everything from clothing repair items to legal advice and care kits. WV4EF will be tabling at the event and providing information about energy efficiency. Stop by and say hello! Learn more about the event here.

Legislative Updates

Community Solar Bill

House Bill 4834

Status: Introduced by Delegates Evan Hansen, D-Monongalia, and Kayla Young, D-Kanawha

Summary: Establishing a community solar program for subscribers to gain credits against their utility bills. Access the bill here.

Take Action

Tell the WV Public Service Commission you oppose weakening net metering.

For over a decade, West Virginia has embraced a net metering policy that empowered households and businesses to harness solar energy and contribute excess power back to our local electric grid.

TAKE ACTION

Would you like WV4EF to speak with your community, group, or organization about energy freedom? Contact courtney@energyfreedomwv.org.