2010 Survey of AARP Members in West Virginia About Electricity Rate Increase

AARP West Virginia commissioned a research study to explore the opinions of its members in West Virginia about proposed increases in electricity rates. Members in West Virginia who get their electricity from Appalachian Power or Wheeling Power overwhelmingly oppose proposed rate hikes for electricity.  And if such rate hikes are approved, seven in ten say they are concerned about their ability to pay more for their electricity.

Key findings include:

• Most AARP members in West Virginia are concerned about the rising costs of heating and cooling their homes, and many think they are currently paying too much for electricity. Sixty-seven percent say they are extremely or very concerned about the rising costs of heating and cooling their homes; and another 20 percent say they are somewhat concerned.  Only 12 percent say they are not very or not at all concerned.

• Nearly all members in West Virginia (92%) oppose a request by Appalachian Power and Wheeling Power to increase their electricity bill.

• Most AARP members in West Virginia are concerned about their ability to pay more for electricity.  Sixty-nine percent say they are extremely or very concerned about their ability to pay more for electricity if the Public Service Commission approves Appalachian Power and Wheeling Power’s request to increase their monthly electricity bill; and another 20 percent are somewhat concerned.  Only 10 percent say they are not very or not at all concerned.

• Most AARP members in West Virginia do not feel their elected officials are doing enough to help people affected with rising energy costs. Seventy-four percent say they do not feel their elected officials are doing enough; 12 percent say they are; and 13 percent are not sure.

RDD Field Services conducted a telephone survey of West Virginia residents who are members of AARP and receive their electricity from Appalachian Power or Wheeling Power.  The survey was conducted between May 26 and May 28, 2010, and a total of 700 interviews were completed.  For further information, please contact the author, Terri Guengerich, at (202) 434-6306.