COLUMBUS, Ohio, July 2, 2001 - Environmental achievements and activities during the past two years are the focus of a newly published summary report by American Electric Power (NYSE:AEP).

Toward Environmental Excellence highlights AEP’s efforts and accomplishments in 1999 and 2000 as governed by the company’s five environmental tenets:

1. Compliance
2. Leadership
3. Risk Management
4. Sustainability
5. Accountability

In addition to the printed report, the information is available online. The web site includes answers to questions about environmental performance that are applicable to companies that generate electricity. The questions were developed by the Coalition for Environmentally Responsible Economies (CERES).

“As the nation’s largest generator of electricity, we fully understand the important responsibilities, including environmental stewardship, that go with the size, scope and nature of our operations and business activities,” said Dale Heydlauff, AEP senior vice president, Environmental Affairs. “AEP strives to continually improve its commitment to the environment by going beyond what is legally required to preserve and enhance our natural surroundings.”

American Electric Power is a multinational energy company based in Columbus, Ohio. AEP owns and operates more than 38,000 megawatts of generating capacity, making it America’s largest generator of electricity. The company is also a leading wholesale energy marketer and trader, ranking second in the U.S. in electricity volume with a growing presence in natural gas. AEP provides retail electricity to more than 7 million customers worldwide and has holdings in the U.S. and select international markets. Wholly owned subsidiaries are involved in power engineering and construction services, energy management and telecommunications.