November 25, 2024 - As we continue to witness the transition of leadership in Washington and here in the Mountain State, it is clear that West Virginia is well-positioned for significant growth in the energy sector.

From former President Donald Trump’s “drill, baby, drill” mantra to Gov.-elect Patrick Morrisey’s staunch support for natural gas, oil and coal producers when they faced burdensome federal regulations, the business climate for these industries has improved. This change brings renewed hope for a more balanced and sound national energy policy.

West Virginia’s natural gas and coal reserves remain vital to meeting the current demand for power, as well as planning for increased demand in the future. The state’s energy resources are central to both our economy and the nation’s energy security.

The Mountain State has been fortunate to have two strong senators — Sen. Joe Manchin, I-W.Va., and Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va. — in positions of influence, advocating for pragmatic energy policies. Still, the nation’s rapid push toward green energy under President Biden raised concerns about power grid reliability and sent mixed signals to energy companies about how they should proceed with long-term investments.

Looking forward, a new administration coupled with more prudent leadership in Congress presents an opportunity to craft a more balanced energy strategy. Such a strategy should address legitimate environmental concerns while ensuring the nation’s energy needs are met both in the short and long term.

To achieve this, it is critical to continue pursuing cleaner energy sources while also minimizing the environmental impact of existing fuels. Efforts to return nuclear energy to the forefront, expand solar and wind investments, and explore hydrogen and carbon capture technologies are essential.

That’s why Friday’s announcement from Sens. Manchin and Capito regarding the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) proposal to grant West Virginia authority over the Class VI well program — commonly known as Class VI “primacy” — is particularly encouraging.

Class VI wells are used to inject carbon dioxide (CO2) into deep rock formations, supporting carbon capture and storage (CCS) projects. According to the release, these wells “serve as critical infrastructure for deploying carbon capture and storage (CCS) projects.” If finalized, Class VI primacy will allow CCS project developers in West Virginia to apply directly for permits through the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, expediting the permitting process while maintaining strict safety standards. Currently, such permits require federal EPA approval.

“West Virginia has always been at the forefront of deploying cutting-edge energy technologies,” Manchin said. “CCS will strengthen our energy security, create high-paying jobs, and reduce emissions. Ensuring these wells can be approved quickly and safely by WVDEP experts who know our state best is key to realizing this goal, and I’m glad the state and the EPA have collaborated on this important initiative and look forward to seeing it finalized as quickly as possible.”

Capito expressed similar optimism, emphasizing the importance of state-led oversight for advancing carbon capture technology.

“After too long of a delay, it is welcome news that EPA has taken this step towards granting West Virginia the authority we need to properly implement carbon capture technology. I have frequently said that the states are better suited than Washington to carry out this authority and get these projects up and running,” Capito said.

“Carbon capture, use, and storage is essential to protecting our ability to provide reliable, baseload power in West Virginia through coal and natural gas, while reducing our power and manufacturing sector emissions. I look forward to the swift finalization of this authority and its enactment in our state.”

As we navigate the future of energy policy, our leaders in Washington and the Mountain State must prioritize balancing environmental concerns with the energy production necessary for economic growth and national security. By pursuing innovative energy solutions and leveraging West Virginia’s resources, we can ensure a prosperous and sustainable future for generations to come.