Energy and Raw Materials

West Virginia is known worldwide as a state rich in natural resources and with abundant supplies of raw materials, including:

• More than 55 billion tons of coal
• 2,528 billion cubic feet of natural gas
• 129 million barrels of petroleum, including natural gas liquid

With the abundant supply of raw materials available in large quantities, operating costs are significantly reduced.

Reliable, low cost electric power is provided by American Electric Power, the nation's second largest investor-owned utility and operator of some of the country's most efficient coal-fired power plants. Electric rates are consistently 25-30 percent below the national average.

Putnam County area is rich in natural gas reserves, with several large and many smaller suppliers. Allegheny Power is the area's largest local distribution company. Allegheny Power provides service under an Economic Development Program Tariff for expanded and new industrial facilities in its service area. This program, intended to retain, attract and encourage expansion of industry, offers one of the country's most competitive rate packages available to industrial customers.

Other fuels such as coal, fuel oil and propane are readily available through a number of local suppliers.