Plugged In: W.Va. works towards comprehensive energy plan

West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey's administration is spearheading the development of a Comprehensive Energy Policy and Development Plan, codified by House Bill 5381. The plan, known as the "50 by 50 plan," aims to expand the state's electric-generating capacity from 16 gigawatts to at least 50 gigawatts by 2050, positioning West Virginia as a major energy provider for the East Coast and attracting significant economic development, including data centers. The legislation, passed on the final day of the 2026 session, mandates an "all-of-the-above" energy strategy, focusing on the continued use of coal and natural gas, alongside nuclear and other alternatives. Critics, including House Energy and Public Works Minority Chairman Evan Hansen, expressed concern over the removal of explicit references to renewable energy like solar and wind, arguing that it may not be the most cost-effective path for ratepayers. However, Nicholas Preservati, Director of the Office of Energy, clarified that the plan does factor in renewable energy growth despite the legislative text. The strategy seeks to retain West Virginia's energy resources in-state for electricity generation, creating economic benefits through mining/drilling, transportation, and powering in-state businesses. Preservati highlighted the strategic pairing of this energy policy with House Bill 2014, which offers incentives for data center and microgrid projects, to create a demand that justifies the expanded energy infrastructure. The Office of Energy has contracted Davis Energy and Infrastructure Strategy Group to assist in developing the plan, with a first draft anticipated within two to three months, followed by stakeholder and a 90-day public comment period before its December 1 deadline.