Electricity in West Virginia in 2024/2025
West Virginia's electricity consumption from June 2024 to May 2025 is overwhelmingly dominated by fossil fuels, which account for more than 90% of the state's electricity production. Coal is the major contributor with over 85%, followed by gas contributing close to 7%. In contrast, low-carbon energy sources make up a small fraction, just over 7%, of the total electricity mix. Wind energy constitutes slightly more than 4%, and hydropower accounts for just under 3%. The significant reliance on fossil fuels poses challenges but also presents opportunities to transition towards a more sustainable energy future. This shift is crucial to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change.
Is Electricity Growing in West Virginia?
Electricity consumption in West Virginia has changed significantly when compared to its peak in 2005. The current electricity consumption sits at 28,908 kWh per person, which is more than a 22,500 kWh reduction from the 2005 peak of 51,429 kWh per person. Remarkably, low-carbon electricity generation has experienced a mild uptick, reaching 2,177 kWh per person in 2025, which is an improvement of 66 kWh from the previous record set in 2024. While any increase in clean electricity generation is positive, the overall decline in total electricity consumption is alarming, suggesting a lack of growth to support future electrification and technological advancements.
Suggestions
To enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, West Virginia can draw lessons from regions that have successfully harnessed clean energy. Iowa and South Dakota, for example, generate upwards of 60% of their electricity from wind, illustrating the potential for wind energy expansion. Likewise, France and Slovakia demonstrate the capability of nuclear energy to supply a significant share of electricity, with 69% and 64% respectively. West Virginia, therefore, should consider bolstering investments in wind and nuclear energy to increase its clean electricity output. Moreover, leveraging solar energy, as seen in places like Lebanon and Nevada, which generate around 30% of their electricity from solar, could also contribute considerably to West Virginia's clean energy portfolio.
History
Tracing back through West Virginia's low-carbon electricity history, hydropower has seen fluctuations over the past two decades, with periods of both increase and decline, notably a decline of 0.5 TWh in 2014. Wind energy has demonstrated more consistent growth, particularly with a robust increase in 2022. Early 2009 marked a significant rise in both hydro and wind generation, setting a precedent for following years. The ongoing development of wind energy, considering its more recent upward trend, suggests a promising avenue for future expansion. To build on these developments, West Virginia would benefit from consistently capitalizing on and scaling up its low-carbon electricity generation. This can position the state more favorably to meet future demands and move towards a more sustainable energy landscape.