FAIRMONT, W.Va. – FirstEnergy Corporation customers with Mon Power and Potomac Edison can now purchase solar renewable energy credits (SREC’s) from five utility-scale solar projects planned in the state.
In April, the Public Service Commission conditionally approved construction on all five projects after sufficient customer demand is determined.
FirstEnergy spokesman, Will Boye said Mon Power plans to build, own and operate the following five facilities:
• A 26-acre reclaimed ash disposal site in Berkeley County
• A 51-acre site adjacent to a Mon Power substation in Hancock County
• A 27-acre retired ash disposal site in Marion County
• A 95-acre site in Monongalia County adjacent to Fort Martin Power Station
• A 44-acre reclaimed strip mine property in Tucker County
“When we are able to get customer commitments for 85-percent of a facility’s credit then we will go back to the commission and seek final approval for a modest ratepayer surcharge to help cover the project cost.”
Businesses and homeowners are becoming more interested in renewable energy as a way to offset utility bills and help the environment. Many industries and municipalities are also making the move to renewables in an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
“We have heard interest from customers, both residential and commercial, who really want to support renewable energy in the state and the economic development that goes with that,” Boye said.
A commercial subscription would equal a percentage of monthly usage, but is negotiable. Residential customers have an ala carte menu.
“You can sign up for $2-per month which is a cup of coffee and you’re supporting solar energy in the state, and doing your part to support economic development and those benefits that come with renewable energy generation in the state.” Boye said.
The program is a commitment, or subscription until the 85-percent threshold is reached for business and residential customers.
This would show up on customers’ bills by early 2024,” Boye said. “We do have to reach that 85-percent threshold and our hope is the we can start construction on our first facility by the end of the year.”
Mon Power and Potomac Edison estimate the total cost of the facilities at $102.2 million with annual operations and maintenance expense of $1 million to $1.5 million.