Senator Shelley Moore Capito, U.S. Senator for West Virginia | Official U.S. Senate headshot
Senator Shelley Moore Capito, U.S. Senator for West Virginia | Official U.S. Senate headshot
U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito has announced that FirstEnergy will receive $50 million from the U.S. Department of Energy for grid upgrades in West Virginia. This funding, sourced from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act’s Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships Program, aims to improve grid and transmission systems for over 50,000 customers and 450 essential facilities such as schools and hospitals.
The project also includes a four-year apprenticeship program with a training center located in Fairmont, West Virginia. Senator Capito supported FirstEnergy's application for this funding earlier this year by authoring a letter of endorsement.
"West Virginians deserve reliable access to electricity that keeps their lights on and homes warm," stated Ranking Member Capito. She emphasized that such initiatives enhance grid reliability and prevent disruptions affecting residents' lives and safety. The project is expected to foster economic development and support workforce training through the apprenticeship program.
Senator Capito highlighted her role in crafting the IIJA legislation, noting its potential impact on strengthening grid reliability and power generation across the country.
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