CHARLESTON, W.Va. — FirstEnergy Corp. and Allegheny Energy Inc. would reduce rates for West Virginia customers and improve service under a planned merger, the utilities said Wednesday in a filing with state regulators.

The combined company also would provide an additional $500,000 over four years in West Virginia to a nonprofit fund that provides utility assistance to low-income households, according to the filing with the state Public Service Commission.

Under the proposal, a regional headquarters would be established and rates reduced by $7.5 million over two years for Allegheny's West Virginia customers. The merger also promises enhanced service to reduce the duration of power failures and maintaining call-center operations in Fairmont for at least five years.