Mon Power and Potomac Edison, subsidiaries of FirstEnergy, have identified a 35-acre site adjacent to the Fort Martin Power Station in Maidsville, West Virginia, for the construction of a 1,200-megawatt natural gas power plant. The selection of this natural gas plant site is part of the company's Integrated Resource Plan aimed at upgrading the regional power infrastructure.

If approved by the West Virginia Public Service Commission, on-site construction could begin as early as 2027, with the natural gas plant expected to be operational by the end of 2031. The company anticipates a decision from the Commission within the next year to advance this critical project.

The natural gas plant is a central component of Mon Power and Potomac Edison's Integrated Resource Plan, which also includes the continued operation of the Fort Martin and Harrison power plants and the introduction of new solar resources to balance the energy mix.

Jim Myers, President of FirstEnergy in West Virginia and Maryland, stated: "The Fort Martin Power Station is a vital part of our electric network, and the new plant will further strengthen its role. By adding modern natural gas generation, we are committed to providing reliable and affordable electricity for West Virginia homes and businesses, meeting both current and future needs."

Additionally, Mon Power and Potomac Edison plan to add 70 megawatts of solar generation. These projects will be located on former industrial sites and reclaimed mine lands, including: a 50-megawatt project on a 188-acre former surface mine site near the Valley Point Private Airport; an 8.4-megawatt project on 51 acres around the Mon Power substation in the Wylie Ridge area of Weirton; and an 11.5-megawatt project on 44 acres of reclaimed surface mine land in Davis.

These new solar projects will complement the company's existing 30-megawatt solar portfolio on brownfield and former industrial sites developed since 2024, collectively supporting West Virginia's energy diversification. The advancement of the natural gas plant site and the expansion of solar resources demonstrate the company's proactive approach in the energy transition.