CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WV News) — A large majority of West Virginians — 81% — support natural gas and oil drilling in the state, a recent survey commissioned by the Gas and Oil Association of West Virginia Inc. found.
The survey also found 52% of West Virginians ranked inflation as the most important issue facing the state, followed by energy independence (17%) and the environment (10%).
While voters are concerned about the rising cost of living, nearly 60% blame government overspending as the cause and nearly 8 in 10 favor policies that increase domestic drilling and the completion of pipeline projects to ease inflationary burdens, according to the survey.
The survey also found 70% of West Virginians have a favorable impression of the natural gas and oil sector.
Additional key findings include:
• Nearly 8 in 10 respondents favor an all-of-the above electricity generation strategy inclusive of natural gas, coal and renewables, despite approximately 90% of West Virginia electricity currently being generated by coal.
• Cost remains a leading factor in electricity choice, with 65% of West Virginians unwilling to pay more for alternative energy sources like wind and solar.
The survey was conducted by The Strategy Group Co. and took place July 18-27, 2022.
Results come from a sample of 899 West Virginia adults, collected via live-phone interviews, interactive voice response, and SMS text. The survey has a margin of error of +/- 3.9 percent.
