50 by 50: Building the Next Generation of the West Virginia Economy
West Virginia is launching a bold strategy to prepare the state for the next era of economic growth. The initiative focuses on ensuring West Virginia is ready to compete for the types of projects shaping the modern economy. By coordinating planning, infrastructure awareness, and regional collaboration, the state is helping communities position locations capable of supporting manufacturing, technology, energy, logistics, and other advanced industries.
The strategy reflects a broader momentum in the state’s economy. Since October, the Morrisey Administration has secured more than $12 billion in combined public and private investment in West Virginia, fueling job creation, strengthening energy infrastructure, and positioning the state for long-term growth in manufacturing, data centers, and advanced industries.
Economic development today is increasingly competitive. Companies evaluating locations want certainty, speed, and collaboration from state and local partners. The 50 by 50 initiative helps ensure West Virginia communities are prepared to meet those expectations.
By strengthening planning, coordination, and long-term development capacity across the state, 50 by 50 is helping build the foundation for the next generation of the West Virginia economy.
Investments Moving West Virginia Forward
$2.5 Billion First Energy Natural Gas Plant
- 1.2 GW baseload generation
- Powers manufacturing and data center expansion
- 3,200 construction jobs
$1.44 Billion Coal Plant Life Extensions
- Six coal-fired facilities modernized
- Up to 20 years of extended capacity
- Preserves 10.5 GW of generation
- Supported by DOE’s Loan Program Office
$1.2 Billion Kindle/Blackstone/GE Vernova Gas-Fired Plant
- 625 MW of new generation
- 805 construction jobs
- No state funding required
$70 Million Diversified Energy Well-Plugging Program
- 1,500 wells sealed
- Privately funded
- Improves environmental compliance
$400 Million Ergon Expansion in Newell
- 25 new jobs
- 240 jobs retained
- First participant in Power Tech workforce program
$7 Million Bidell Gas Compression Expansion in Weirton
- 80 new manufacturing jobs
- Supported by state’s performance-based loan infrastructure and economic growth
Why Companies Are Saying Yes to West Virginia
- Reliable, low-cost baseload power
- World-class energy operators and investors
- Streamlined permitting and pro-business policies
- A skilled workforce ready for advanced training
- Strategic geographic access to major markets
- Fast-moving and responsive state leadership
Request a Consultation
Companies seeking to expand operations, secure reliable power, or explore opportunities in West Virginia’s energy and manufacturing ecosystem can request a confidential consultation.
A member of our economic development team will follow up within 24 hours.
