West virginia Commerce Secretary Highlights Energy Sector as Key to Future Economic growth
PARKERSBURG,WV – West Virginia is poised to become a national energy provider,according to Secretary of Commerce Matt Herridge,who spoke Wednesday at the annual joint meeting of the Wood County Development Authority and the Parkersburg-Wood County Area Development Corporation. Herridge emphasized the need for the state to adapt and diversify its energy portfolio,moving beyond coal to include resources like natural gas to meet growing national demand.
“We have to adapt and we have to change,” herridge stated. “West Virginia is on the cusp of making those changes.” he noted the increasing need for energy to power new data centers and positioned West Virginia to capitalize on this demand.”West Virginia is going to be the place where it starts and that has brought us a great deal of attention…we want to be the place that’s going to provide that power to the nation.”
Prior to discussing the state’s economic outlook, Herridge highlighted the long-term nature of economic development, acknowledging past challenges while expressing optimism for future growth. “That’s where we are, we’re building strength in this state,” he saeid.
Wood County Economic development Executive Director Lindsey Piersol introduced Herridge, citing his experience in both business and his current role as Commerce Secretary as reasons for his selection as the keynote speaker. Piersol also presented the organization’s annual report, detailing recent successes and future plans.
The report revealed the organization revisited 64 businesses to track project progress and assisted in bringing 20 new businesses to Wood County. Piersol announced three new projects expected to create hundreds of jobs, and outlined plans to expand the Mid-Ohio Valley Regional Airport, a project anticipated to generate nearly 700 employment opportunities.
“When you work in economic development, it’s easy to always look for the next thing…I think it’s crucial to know where we started,” Piersol said, emphasizing the importance of recognizing past achievements. She concluded by thanking attendees for thier commitment to the community.
The Wood County Development Authority is a public entity that meets as needed, while the Parkersburg-Wood County Area Development Corporation is a private entity meeting bi-monthly on the second Wednesday of alternating months.
More data about Wood County Economic Development can be found at www.developwoodcountywv.com.