Relating to utility affordability and economic competitiveness

SB 931 establishes the "West Virginia Utility Affordability and Economic Competitiveness Act" to address high utility costs by imposing a moratorium on rate increases for electricity and water utilities. The bill defines "affordability" as the lowest total cost of electricity (including all rates, fees, and charges) that minimizes financial burden on households and businesses while considering competitiveness with neighboring states. It sets reliability standards requiring electricity sources to maintain 80% performance without intermittent availability (excluding peaker plants) and mandates comprehensive cost evaluations factoring in environmental impacts and supply chain risks. These provisions aim to restore affordability and reliability for West Virginia residents and businesses, which the legislature states are foundational to economic development.