Appalachian Power files 2019 Integrated Resource Plan with Virginia State Corporation Commission

Appalachian Power recently filed its 2019 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) with the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC), which calls for increased utility-scale solar, wind energy and energy efficiency (EE) programs.

The IRP forecasts Appalachian Power’s load obligations in Virginia over the next 15 years and outlines how the company intends to meet them while maintaining reasonable prices, reliable service, energy independence, and environmental responsibility. In addition to increased solar, wind and energy efficiency, the plan includes the continued use of existing coal, natural gas, hydro generation plants, and renewable energy contracts.

The plan also addresses mandates from the General Assembly’s 2018 Virginia Act including the construction of 200 megawatts (MW) of in-state utility-owned solar, $140 million in energy efficiency program and potential investment in up to 10MW of new battery storage installations.

“This plan continues Appalachian Power’s generation philosophy of delivering reliable and diversified generated power for the future at a reasonable price to our customers,” Chris Beam, Appalachian Power’s president and chief operating officer, said. “We will continue to rely on fossil-fueled generation, but based on lower costs and growing customer expectations there will be increasing contributions of renewable resources, energy efficiency programs and other innovations in our energy mix.”

Appalachian Power currently submits its IRP with the SCC annually. Based on legislative changes, the next filing will be in 2022.