HANCOCK COUNTY, W.Va. — An ambitious $4 billion energy investment initiative is underway in West Virginia, aiming to meet the global demand for energy while boosting the state’s economy.
Gov. Patrick Morrisey announced the enterprise during an energy summit, highlighting the involvement of Hancock County-based companies Bidell Gas Compression and Ergon.
“We know that there’s an almost insatiable demand for energy across the globe. Why shouldn’t West Virginia step up?” Morrisey said.
Nearly half a billion is earmarked for the Northern Panhandle.
Bidell Gas Compression is investing $7 million to expand its Weirton plant, creating 80 new manufacturing jobs.
“Bidell has been proud to invest in West Virginia since 2016, and we’re truly excited to take this next step by expanding our footprint with this new facility,” said John Chisolm, plant manager at Bidell. “This growth represents more than just an investment in infrastructure—it’s an investment in the people and the communities of West Virginia.”
The state is providing a $1 million performance-based loan to Bidell, which includes a repayment structure.
Meanwhile, Ergon is set to create 25 new jobs and retain 240 positions with a $400 million expansion. The company will also be the first participant in the state’s Power Tech Workforce Training Program.
“This is a great example of what can happen when the business community and our state, local, and federal leaders, when they promote a very healthy business environment,” said Kris Patrick, CEO of Ergon.
Morrisey expressed optimism about the state’s future.
“We are not going backwards. West Virginia is going to soar, and we’re going to do it based on the fundamentals and all of these people who are talking about, ‘oh, this is not how you do it.’ no, this is the right way to do it! West Virginia’s going to leverage its energy resources, and we’re going to grow,” Morrisey said.
