The resolution, introduced on February 19, 2026, requests the Joint Committee on Government and Finance to conduct a study on policies aimed at expediting the ordering and deployment of electric generation equipment in West Virginia. This initiative is driven by the state's long-term goal of achieving up to 50 gigawatts of electric generation capacity by 2050, which is part of a broader energy growth strategy. The resolution emphasizes the importance of expanding electric generation capacity to bolster the state’s economy, retain jobs, and support industries such as natural gas production and coal mining. It also highlights the challenges posed by national supply chain issues that have led to extended lead times for large-scale electric generation equipment, necessitating early ordering to maintain grid reliability and support economic growth.

The study will explore various policy mechanisms, including state-backed deposit guarantees to mitigate financial risks, regulatory certainty for cost recovery, and accelerated depreciation schedules to incentivize early capital commitments. Additionally, it will assess the applicability of these policies across different generation technologies and evaluate their potential impact on system reliability, job creation, and long-term rate stability. The Joint Committee is tasked with gathering input from a range of stakeholders, including the Public Service Commission and industry representatives, and is expected to report its findings and any legislative recommendations to the Legislature during the next Regular Session.