Powering West Virginia’s Energy Future
The West Virginia Office of Energy is responsible for the formulation and implementation of fossil, renewable and energy efficiency initiatives designed to advance energy resource development opportunities and provide energy services to businesses, communities and homeowners in West Virginia.
As a division of the West Virginia Department of Commerce, the Office develops, implements, and supports programs, initiatives, and policies across West Virginia’s energy portfolio. We work with government agencies, energy producers, utilities, businesses, local leaders, and community partners to support responsible development, attract investment, and prepare the state for evolving energy needs.
How We Serve West Virginia:
Policy & Strategic Planning
We develop statewide energy strategies that support West Virginia’s economy, security, and long-term growth. Our work includes advancing the Governor’s energy priorities, providing policy and legislative expertise, developing the state’s five-year energy plan, and coordinating long-range initiatives that build on West Virginia’s energy strengths (such as Governor Patrick Morrisey’s 50 by 50 Generation Plan).
Industry & Economic Development
We work with energy producers, utilities, manufacturers, developers, and other stakeholders to encourage investment and responsible energy development in West Virginia. The Office provides technical assistance, helps connect projects with available resources, and supports traditional and emerging energy industries that contribute to job creation and economic growth.
Programs & Initiatives
We administer state and federal programs that serve West Virginia residents, businesses, communities, local governments, and nonprofit organizations. These initiatives support energy improvements, infrastructure projects, economic development, and other investments that help reduce costs and strengthen communities across the state.
Workforce Development
A strong energy economy requires a skilled workforce. We support training, credentialing, and professional development opportunities that help West Virginians prepare for careers in the energy sector. This includes partnerships with contractors, educational institutions, employers, and workforce organizations throughout the state.
Grid Reliability & Energy Security
We support efforts to strengthen the reliability, resilience, and security of West Virginia’s energy infrastructure. The Office evaluates projects and funding opportunities, coordinates energy-security planning, and works with public- and private-sector partners to prepare for fuel or electricity disruptions.
Education & Community Outreach
We connect West Virginians with information about energy programs, funding opportunities, and practical ways to manage energy use and costs. Through community engagement, educational partnerships, internships, and hands-on learning opportunities, we also help prepare the next generation of West Virginia energy professionals.
Work With Us:
Whether you are interested in collaborating with the West Virginia Office of Energy, seeking input on a potential project, or exploring career opportunities, there are several ways to connect with our team.
Collaborate With Us
We work with businesses, government agencies, local leaders, educational institutions, community organizations, and other stakeholders to advance energy initiatives across West Virginia. Request a meeting to discuss partnership opportunities, shared priorities, or ways your organization can work with the Office.
Submit a Project for Review
Planning an energy-related project in West Virginia? Complete our Project Pre-Screening Questionnaire to provide basic information about your proposal and request input from our team. Your responses will help us evaluate the project, identify potential resources, and connect you with the appropriate staff.
Career Opportunities
The West Virginia Office of Energy offers opportunities to contribute to programs and initiatives that support the state’s energy economy, communities, and residents. Open positions will be posted here as they become available.
Contact Us
West Virginia Office of Energy
State Capitol Complex Building 3, Suite 500
Charleston, WV 25305-0311
(304) 558-2234
WVOEInfo@wv.gov
Our Team:
The West Virginia Office of Energy’s staff brings experience in energy policy, program administration, infrastructure, economic development, grant management, communications, and community engagement.
Nicholas Preservati
Director
Sheri Lanham
Executive Assistant to the Director
ReAnna Drake
Financial Analyst
Jackson Igo
Energy Development Specialist
Tyler Lafferty
Energy Security Lead
Katy Timari
Infrastructure & Strategic Planning Manager
Bryan Mabe
Deputy Director
Christian Watts
Grants Administrator
Clayburne Stevens
Program Manager
Brooke Jones
Program Manager
Jacob Garnes
Program Manager
Davis Haynes
Program Manager
Chelsea Morrison
Communications Manager
Taylor Patterson
Communications Program Coordinator
Luke Hamilton
Communications Program Coordinator
Alexis McComas
Community Outreach Coordinator
John Brumley
Program Coordinator
Civil Rights Policy:
The West Virginia Office of Energy is committed to administering its programs and services fairly and in accordance with applicable federal and state civil rights requirements. For information about the Office’s civil rights policy, visit our Civil Rights Compliance page.