Appalachian Power plans open house for transmission upgrades in Huntington

HUNTINGTON, W.Va., Feb. 19, 2026 - Appalachian Power Company (APCo) representatives plan to upgrade the transmission system in Huntington as part of the Darrah-Barnett Transmission Line Rebuild Project. The project involves rebuilding approximately 3 miles of 69-kilovolt (kV) transmission line and upgrading two substations to increase reliability for customers and reduce the risk of power outages.

Community members are encouraged to attend an open house to learn more about the project and provide input. There is no formal presentation, so attendees are welcome to attend at any time during the event:

• Wednesday, Mar. 18, 5-7 p.m. at Fairfield East Community Center, 2711 8th Ave, Huntington, WV 25703

Residents unable to attend the open house can visit the project website and virtual open house at AppalachianPower.com/Darrah-Barnett. Landowners are encouraged to submit their feedback by Friday, March 27.

Landowners within the project area can expect to receive a packet in the mail that includes additional project details. Right-of-way agents also plan to contact affected landowners later this year to discuss upcoming field activities, property easements and construction.

These upgrades to the electrical system are required by PJM interconnection, the regional transmission organization monitoring the electric grid in 13 states and the District of Columbia. APCo representatives plan to file for approval with the Public Service Commission of West Virginia (PSC) this summer. If approved, APCo expects construction to begin fall 2028 and conclude spring 2029.