GO-WV’s 2025 “Gas Facts” highlights the employment and economic impact of state’s growing role in the nation’s energy future
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – February 24, 2026 — West Virginia’s natural gas and oil industry continues to drive economic opportunity at home while helping secure reliable, affordable energy for the nation. The Gas and Oil Association of West Virginia’s (GO-WV) newly released 2025 Gas Facts report confirms the state’s standing as the fifth-largest natural gas producer in the United States and a critical contributor to the country’s energy backbone.
“West Virginia’s natural gas and oil industry continues to demonstrate its strength and staying power,” said GO-WV President-Elect Rebecca McPhail. “For generations, our people have powered this country. These numbers reflect not just production strength, but the pride of a workforce and the resilience of communities that have always stepped up to meet America’s energy needs.”
Located within the Appalachian Basin, the largest natural gas producing region in the nation, West Virginia plays a central role in meeting growing domestic and international energy demand. As of June 2025, the state produced 3.27 trillion cubic feet (tcf) of natural gas, accounting for roughly 10 percent of total U.S. supply. Oil production also remained strong, reaching 14.3 million barrels in 2025.
“The numbers in this report are something to celebrate. Natural gas is helping power our economy and support communities all across West Virginia,” said Delegate Lori Dittman, who recently announced the formation of the House Natural Gas and Oil Caucus.
Beyond production, natural gas and oil development generates significant revenue streams that directly support schools, first responders, infrastructure, and essential public services across West Virginia.
In FY 2024-2025, the industry delivered:
- $122.8 million in property taxes
- $318.3 million in severance taxes
Since 2008, the industry has contributed $5.92 billion in combined property and severance tax revenues, underscoring nearly two decades of sustained fiscal support for the state.
“West Virginia natural gas strengthens America’s position in the world,” added GO-WV President Charlie Burd. “Affordable, reliable natural gas supports domestic manufacturing, lowers energy costs for families, and gives the United States a strategic advantage in global markets. As demand continues to grow, our state is well-positioned to meet that challenge and lead for decades to come.”
In addition, GO-WV member companies report that royalty payments to West Virginia landowners exceeded $1 billion in 2025 alone, providing meaningful income to families and small businesses throughout the region.
The sector continues to support tens of thousands of jobs and remains a magnet for capital investment, reinforcing West Virginia’s reputation as a national leader in responsible energy production and innovation.
Key Highlights from 2025 Gas Facts
(Production data as of June 2025; tax data as of July 2025)
- Fifth-largest natural gas producing state in the U.S.
- 56 trillion cubic feet (tcf) of natural gas produced (~10% of U.S. supply)
- 3 million barrels of oil produced
- $122.8 million paid in state property taxes
- $318.3 million contributed in severance taxes
- $5.92 billion in total property and severance taxes paid since 2008
- Over $1 billion in royalty payments to West Virginia landowners in 2025
- Over $10 million invested and nearly 25,000 hours volunteered at West Virginia nonprofits, education, and charitable organizations
- Approximately 73,000 jobs supported
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About GO-WV
The Gas and Oil Association of WV, Inc. (GO-WV), is a non-profit corporation working to promote and protect all aspects of the oil and natural gas industry in West Virginia. GO-WV’s mission is to support and advocate for our 500 member companies and their thousands of employees, as they contribute to the growth and prosperity of West Virginia by safely providing reliable clean energy to meet the needs of our state and our nation. For more information, visit www.gowv.com or follow us on X (@GasOilWV), Facebook (@GasAndOilWV) and LinkedIn (@GO-WV).
