The decision on whether or not people will wind up helping to foot the bill for a Jackson County business is in the hands of the Public Service Commission.
The PSC wrapped up its evidentiary hearings with Century Aluminum on Wednesday.
The hearings ended on an emotional note for the Century Aluminum retirees, whose health care benefits are tied to this power agreement.
Century retiree Karen Gorrell got the last word before the PSC adjourned. She said, "I'm asking you, as a West Virginia citizen, and as a lawyer, a taxpayer whoever, take that hit. Let's put this together. Get the plant open. Let's join hands together and watch that parking lot fill up. Thank you."
Gorrell said their position hasn't changed.
The retirees want their health benefits back. They want Century to reopen the Ravenswood Plant.
But, she said they don't want Appalachian Power customers to pay for it.
"We can't sell our soul to the devil. There's nothing about the retirees that can go out there and say that we think it's right for the ratepayers for pay Century's power bill," she said.
Consumer advocate Byron Harris said Century's proposed special rate could add an extra three to five dollars to Appalachian Power customers monthly bill.
Harris said the idea hasn't been well received by customers.
"Of the 90 or so complaints the commission received, about 20 were in support of Century and the others were against Century's proposal," he said.
Appalachian Power said it doesn't like Century's idea either.
"What we're looking for is a compromise that won't unduly burden the customers of Appalachian Power," said Appalachian Power spokesperson Jeri Matheney.
Now, it's up to the PSC to mull through thousands of documents, proposals, and figures to see if Century's proposal is legal and fair.
"I have total confidence in what the commission decides, however they decide to handle this, that it will be fair and balanced for all of those concerned. That's all we can ask for," Gorrell said.
The PSC is expected to make a final decision on the matter in September.
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