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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ROANOKE, Va., July 16, 2026 – Appalachian Power Company (APCo) has received approval from the
Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) for a variance related to water releases from the
Smith Mountain Project, effective July 22, 2026.
The variance allows APCo to implement Trigger 3 of its Water Management Plan (WMP) before
the September 30 date outlined in the plan. This action is part of APCo’s aggressive, proactive approach
to conserve water during the ongoing historic drought. To date, measures implemented under the WMP
have helped conserve approximately two feet of water elevation within the project.
“We understand the significant impacts to local communities from this long-term drought,” said
Brannon Littleton, APCo’s hydro manager. “We will continue to proactively work with our regulating
bodies to seek options that allow us to bring better balance to recreational users, customers and
downstream environmental impacts from the project.”
Under the approved variance, APCo can further reduce water flows downstream of Leesville
Dam. While these reduced flows will continue to support downstream ecology, it may affect
recreational activities downstream. The variance will remain in effect until Smith Mountain Lake returns
to full pond elevation of 795 feet.
About Appalachian Power
Appalachian Power Company (APCo), a subsidiary of American Electric Power (Nasdaq: AEP), is a
leading electric utility serving over 1.1 million customers across 57 counties in northeast Tennessee,
southwest Virginia, southern West Virginia and parts of West Virginia’s northern panhandle. With an
extensive network of 61,000 miles of power lines and an owned generating capacity of approximately
8,500 megawatts, APCo is committed to delivering safe, reliable and affordable energy. The company
focuses on customer service, innovation, investing in modern infrastructure and a diverse mix of energy
solutions to enhance grid reliability and efficiency. With a dedicated workforce of 1,700 employees,
APCo is committed to economic development, its customers’ needs and community empowerment. For
more information, visit AppalachianPower.com.