Mon Power and Potomac Edison Announce New Natural Gas Power Plant in West Virginia
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Mon Power and Potomac Edison, subsidiaries of FirstEnergy Corp., have announced the selection of a 35-acre site adjacent to the Fort Martin Power Station in Maidsville, West Virginia, for the construction of a new 1,200-megawatt natural gas power plant. This facility is projected to generate sufficient electricity to power approximately half a million homes, thereby enhancing the reliability and affordability of energy for families and businesses in the region.
The proposed plant is a critical component of the companies' Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), which outlines strategies for maintaining reliable power delivery over the next decade. The IRP not only emphasizes the construction of the new natural gas facility but also includes the continued operation of existing power plants and the addition of new solar resources.
If the project receives approval from the Public Service Commission of West Virginia (PSC), site preparation could commence as early as 2027, with the plant expected to be operational by late 2031. The timeline indicates a proactive approach by Mon Power and Potomac Edison to address future energy needs, particularly as demand continues to rise in the region. The PSC's decision, anticipated within the next year, will be pivotal in determining the project's progression.
In addition to the natural gas plant, Mon Power and Potomac Edison are also seeking approval for 70 megawatts of new solar generation, which will be developed on former industrial and reclaimed mine lands. This initiative not only supports the transition to renewable energy but also contributes to local economic development by creating construction jobs and supporting U.S. manufacturing.
Mon Power currently serves approximately 395,000 customers across 34 counties in West Virginia, while Potomac Edison serves about 285,000 customers in Maryland and 155,000 in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia.
Looking ahead, stakeholders should monitor the PSC's decision regarding the natural gas plant and the proposed solar projects. The outcome will not only influence the future energy landscape in West Virginia but could also set a precedent for similar initiatives in other regions.
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