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West Virginia   West Virginia Profile

State Profile and Energy Estimates

Changes to the State Energy Data System (SEDS) Notice: In October 2023, we are updating the way we calculate primary energy consumption of electricity generation from noncombustible renewable energy sources (solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal). Visit our Changes to 1960—2022 conversion factor for renewable energy page to learn more.

Profile Overview

Quick Facts

  • In 2020, West Virginia ranked fourth among the states in total energy production, accounting for 5% of the nation's total.
  • In 2021, West Virginia was the second-largest coal producer in the nation, after Wyoming, and accounted for 14% of U.S. total coal production. West Virginia also had 12% of recoverable coal reserves at producing mines, the third-largest reserve base in the nation, after Wyoming and Illinois. 
  • In 2021, coal-fired electric power plants accounted for 91% of West Virginia's total electricity net generation. Renewable energy resources—primarily hydroelectric power and wind energy—contributed 5% and natural gas provided more than 4%.
  • In 2021, West Virginia was fourth in the nation in natural gas marketed production. The state produced nearly 2.8 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, about 10 times more than in 2010, and 95% of it was from shale gas wells.
  • West Virginians typically use about half of the electricity generated in the state. As a result, West Virginia is a net supplier of electricity to the regional grid and is among the top states in interstate transfers of electricity. In 2021, only four other states sent more of their electricity generation out of state.

Last Updated: December 15, 2022

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