American Electric Power Co. Inc. says it will have to shut down five plants and make cutbacks at six others to comply with new rules proposed for coal-fired power plants.

The power generator based in Columbus, Ohio, said Thursday that the plan being considered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency would lead to a net loss of 600 AEP power plant jobs. CEO Michael Morris says businesses could see electric rates rise by more than 35 percent.

Three plants targeted for closure are in West Virginia, one is in Virginia and one is in Ohio.

Morris says he hopes the EPA will recognize the potential impact. The agency did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

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