July 26, 2019

The West Virginia House of Delegates and Senate have passed a bill exempting the Pleasants Power Station from a $12.5 million annual business and occupation tax.

The state’s tax structure makes Pleasants the only competitive power plant in the state paying the tax.

Currently owned by FirstEnergy subsidiary Allegheny Energy Supply, Pleasants Power Station is scheduled to be transferred to FES as part of a settlement agreement with FirstEnergy once FES emerges from bankruptcy. FES had indicated that without assistance the plant – which employs 160 people – could close by 2022.

Gov. Jim Justice supported the bill, and said in a statement, “This bill is so incredibly important because we’re talking about saving people’s jobs. Entire counties … would be devastated if this plant were to close for good.”

The bill now awaits the governor’s signature.

W.Va. Senate President Mitch Carmichael oversees the voting on House Bill 207, exempting the Pleasants Power Station from state business and occupation tax.