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HB 2420

Relating to power generating plant sites

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Evan Hansen and 1 co-sponsor

House Bill 2420 allows redeployment of existing power plant sites for new energy generation, protecting jobs and stabilizing electricity rates in West Virginia communities.

To House Energy and Public Works
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Bill Summary · HB 2420

Summary of House Bill 2420: Relating to Power Generating Plant Sites

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: HB 2420
- Introduced On: February 17, 2025
- Status: Referred to House Energy and Public Works, then Finance
- Classification: Bill
- Subject: Energy

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2420 aims to address the evolving landscape of the electric utility industry in West Virginia, particularly in light of technological advancements and environmental concerns. The bill seeks to facilitate the redeployment of existing power generating plant sites to ensure continued electricity generation, job retention, and economic stability in communities affected by potential plant closures.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces a new section to the Code of West Virginia, specifically §24-2-1s, which includes the following key provisions:

  1. Legislative Findings:

    • Acknowledges the transition in the electric utility industry due to technological advancements and climate change concerns.
    • Recognizes the potential closure of coal-fired plants and its impact on jobs and local economies.
    • Emphasizes the need for West Virginia to stabilize electricity rates to attract industrial and manufacturing jobs.

  2. Redeployment Process:

    • Allows holders of a certificate of public convenience and necessity to apply for approval to redeploy existing generating plant sites or adjacent sites for new generating plants.
    • The Public Service Commission (PSC) will evaluate applications based on:
      • Projected long-term energy costs of various resource options (nuclear, natural gas, solar, wind, geothermal, etc.).
      • Environmental impacts, including potential future carbon pricing.

  3. Rulemaking Authority:

    • The PSC is authorized to create rules detailing the requirements for applications related to the redeployment of generating plant sites.

Impact

  • Affected Parties:
    • Power Plant Operators: Existing operators of coal-fired plants may seek to redeploy their sites for alternative energy generation.
    • Workers and Communities: The bill aims to protect jobs and economic benefits associated with power generation, particularly in communities reliant on coal-fired plants.
    • Electric Utility Consumers: By promoting flexibility and diversity in energy generation, the bill seeks to provide cost savings to consumers.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was filed and introduced on February 17, 2025, and has been referred to the House Energy and Public Works Committee, followed by the Finance Committee for further consideration.

Conclusion

House Bill 2420 represents a proactive approach to modernizing West Virginia's energy landscape by allowing for the redeployment of existing power generating sites. It aims to balance economic, environmental, and energy needs in the face of a changing industry, ultimately benefiting consumers and communities alike.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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