West Virginia’s profile in the natural gas world may be rising even more after last week.

Del. Mark Zatezalo announced the state had been accepted as a member of the Energy Council, which he explained is an international coalition focusing on energy-related issues. The group includes 13 states and two Canadian provinces.

Natural gas and oil continue to be a driving force in West Virginia’s economy, and we hope membership in this coalition will provide some new opportunities to share ideas and information as we plan for the Mountain State’s future.

This future includes the various natural gas wells and operations throughout the state, proposed ethane crackers and other facilities which could benefit various existing manufacturers, and the long-discussed natural gas storage hub which may be located within the Appalachian region.

“I’ve been proud to spearhead this effort on behalf of our state and know it will reap benefits for us for many years to come,” Zatezalo said in making the announcement.

Other members of this coalition include Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Arkansas, Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, North Dakota and Alaska. Alberta and Saskatchewan also are members. According to the announcement, West Virginia’s membership was approved unanimously.

All have their own histories developing the exploration and extraction of oil and natural gas over the years, and could provide additional inroads and advice as the industry’s presence expands in our state.