West Virginia Energy Policy Differs From Virginia’s New Approach

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia is actively pursuing an ambitious energy strategy, attracting investment and expertise from neighboring Virginia as Governor Patrick Morrisey aims to position the state as a leading energy producer. The state recently partnered with the Davis Energy & Infrastructure Strategy Group, led by former Virginia Department of Energy Director Glenn Davis, to bolster its energy infrastructure and economic growth.

The move comes as Virginia shifts its energy policy towards 100% clean energy by 2045, a direction West Virginia officials contrast sharply with their own “pro-growth, pro-generation” approach. “Energy policy is now economic policy,” said Nick Preservati, West Virginia Deputy Secretary of Commerce. “If a state signals that It’s unwilling to support the infrastructure required for reliable power, capital will move elsewhere. We intend to be that ‘elsewhere.’”

Governor Morrisey’s “50 by 50” plan, announced in September 2025, aims to increase West Virginia’s energy capacity to 50 gigawatts by 2050, a significant jump from its current 15 gigawatts. This initiative is central to the state’s broader effort to capitalize on its abundant natural resources and become a key player in meeting the growing energy demands of the region.

The partnership with Davis Energy & Infrastructure Strategy Group focuses on energy policy, advanced nuclear technologies, and the development of data centers, areas identified as crucial for West Virginia’s energy future. Davis’s arrival follows a change in leadership in Virginia, where Governor Abigail Spanberger opted for a different energy direction, making him available to contribute his expertise to West Virginia.

According to Governor Morrisey, West Virginia, despite being a national leader in per-capita electricity exports, currently lacks the generation capacity to meet future needs. He highlighted the projections from PJM, the regional transmission organization, which anticipates a need for 110 gigawatts of new generation capacity by 2050 to keep pace with demand and account for aging retirements.

“For generations, West Virginia has been the backbone of U.S. Energy,” said Governor Morrisey. “When it comes to energy, West Virginia needs to be out in front. We need sound policy to guide our development and use of our abundant natural resources.”

Governor Patrick Morrisey

The state’s strategy is not without its critics. Some, like House Energy and Public Works Minority Chairman Evan Hansen, believe there is too much emphasis on baseload energy sources – such as coal and natural gas – and insufficient support for renewable energy options like solar and wind. However, officials maintain that a diversified approach is essential for ensuring reliable and affordable power.

The West Virginia Office of Energy emphasizes that this partnership is a continuation of Governor Morrisey’s aggressive push to expand the state’s energy infrastructure. “While other states are turning their backs on the reliable power needed to support growth, West Virginia is stepping up,” Morrisey stated. “We understand that if you want to create jobs, if you want to attract investment, and if you want to compete, you have to have the energy to support it. We are building that here, and we are ready to lead.”

Legislative efforts to codify the Governor’s 50 by 50 proposal through House Bill 5381 passed the West Virginia House of Delegates on March 14, 2026, signaling strong bipartisan support for the state’s ambitious energy goals.