PSC issues ruling regarding utility pole replacement in support of new broadband lines

Charleston, WV (WOAY) – A major decision this week from the Public Service Commission of West Virginia could help fast-track broadband expansion across the state. 

In an order issued on Tuesday, the Commission clarified who is responsible for paying when utility poles need to be replaced to support new broadband lines.

West Virginia has roughly 2.5 million utility poles, most of which are owned by power and phone companies.

The ruling directly impacts how third-party broadband providers can attach to them. 

The Commission says utility companies can’t pass the full replacement cost onto broadband providers if the pole was already due for replacement.

Instead, the cost should be shared among all users who benefit from the new pole, a move the Commission says aligns with federal guidelines. 

The goal is to provide fairer access and fewer financial barriers for broadband companies trying to reach underserved areas. 

The details of cost-sharing will still be worked out between utilities and attachers, but this follows a July ruling requiring utilities to provide non-discriminatory access to their poles.