West Virginia has powered this nation for over 160 years using the abundant energy resources beneath our feet. Today, we honor that legacy and look ahead to how our energy leadership will continue to fuel American security and prosperity while creating a better way of life right here at home.

The Backbone of America’s Energy Security

  • WV is America’s #4 natural gas producer and part of the Appalachian Basin – the largest natural gas producing region in the country, supplying ~20% of domestic production.
    • These resources heat and cool homes, power businesses and a range of end-use applications including manufacturing, electricity generation, global trade and even cloud computing.
  • Our abundance of low-cost and readily available natural gas and oil makes West Virginia attractive for investors looking to grow and drive industries back to America, keeping our competitive edge.
  • Harnessing domestic, WV-produced natural gas reduces reliance on foreign energy and ensures that American families, businesses and military operations have the reliable, affordable power they need.
    • Energy made here at home keeps our country safe, resilient and ready for whatever comes next.

Jobs and Community Strength

  • The gas and oil industry supports 88,000 West Virginia jobs, with wages averaging $97,000 a year.
  • $5.4 billion paid in West Virginia property and severance taxes since 2008 fund local schools, roads, critical infrastructure and services across the state.
  • GO-WV’s annual Scholarship Program – for both university and vocational/technical school applicants –  has awarded $261,000 to West Virginia students since its inception. The industry also conducts annual science teacher, EMS and safety workshops for community members and leaders.

Meeting Tomorrow’s Energy Needs

  • As demand grows, especially with power-hungry new technologies like AI, West Virginia stands ready to provide the reliable, affordable power our nation depends on.
    • West Virginia’s location and natural gas reserves position us to deliver dependable power in our region, to the Northeast, Southeast and beyond.
    • Our innovative workforce and research institutions such as WVU, Marshall, NETL and others are advancing next generation energy technologies including hydrogen, CCS, lithium and battery storage.
  • Expanding pipelines and power plants in-basin, as well as export terminals on the east coast will unlock new opportunities, strengthen the grid and ensure our energy benefits reach more families and businesses.
    • This includes America’s allied and trade partners, who rely on U.S. LNG for responsibly-produced energy.

A Future Fueled by West Virginia

On this West Virginia Day, we celebrate a proud history of powering America — and we look forward to leading the charge toward a stronger, more secure and more prosperous future for generations to come.