West Virginia has one of the longest histories of oil and gas production of any state. Drillers were producing oil here in the 1860s, just a few years after Edwin Drake's famous well in neighboring Pennsylvania. For over 150 years, energy has been central to West Virginia's economy. Today, natural gas from the Marcellus and Utica shales has brought a new era of growth.
The Marcellus and Utica Shales
West Virginia sits directly above two of the most productive shale formations in the country. The Marcellus Shale produces enormous quantities of natural gas across most of the state. Below the Marcellus lies the Utica Shale, which is deeper and produces both gas and natural gas liquids like ethane, propane, and butane. These formations have attracted major investment from large energy companies since the mid-2000s. The northern panhandle of West Virginia is among the most active drilling areas in the entire Appalachian Basin.
How Much Does West Virginia Produce?
West Virginia produces roughly 8 to 9 billion cubic feet of natural gas per day. That makes it one of the top five natural gas states in the country. Oil production is smaller — around 3 to 5 million barrels per year — mostly from conventional wells in the western part of the state. Natural gas liquids from the deep shale wells have become increasingly important and are processed at large facilities in the northern part of the state.
Who Regulates West Virginia Wells?
The West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) — Office of Oil and Gas issues permits, inspects wells, and enforces environmental rules. West Virginia has been working to modernize its regulatory system to keep pace with the rapid growth in shale drilling. The DEP requires operators to submit well records and production data, which are available at dep.wv.gov/oil-and-gas.
Why West Virginia Matters
West Virginia's combination of a long production history and active shale development makes it a fascinating exploration state. Old conventional fields can be revisited with modern techniques, and the shale plays still have large undeveloped acreage. Understanding the state's geology through decades of well records is essential for any exploration team working in the Appalachian Basin.