Exhibit 23


INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT


We consent to the incorporation by reference in  Post-Effective  Amendment No. 1
to Registration  Statement No.  333-100451 of Appalachian  Power Company on Form
S-3 of our reports dated  February 21, 2003,  appearing in and  incorporated  by
reference in this Annual  Report on Form 10-K of  Appalachian  Power Company for
the year ended December 31, 2002.


/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

Deloitte & Touche LLP
Columbus, Ohio
March 20, 2003