by Delegate Evan Hansen and Steve Crum
While the coal and natural gas industries have driven our economy for many years, it’s time to take an all-of-the-above approach that includes more sustainable and clean energy sources.
Advancements in electric vehicle technologies present an opportunity for a surge of new investments in West Virginia’s transportation infrastructure. Mass production of EVs will create jobs in a new branch of automotive manufacturing and design, as well as widespread installation of EV charging stations. These new jobs are needed now more than ever as we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, which still leaves many of our West Virginia friends and neighbors without work.
Over time, increased EV production and use would dramatically reduce carbon emissions on our roads. In the short term, they would create new demand for coal and natural gas, which would be used to generate the electricity that supplies these EV charging stations. West Virginia has been almost completely reliant on gasoline-powered vehicles for decades; the environmental consequences of continuing in that direction could be dire.
President Biden’s historic infrastructure plan includes the construction of a massive network of 500,000 EV charging stations and a commitment of $85 billion to electrify public transit agencies, industrial diesel fleets and 20% of all school buses. The plan also includes strong incentives for states that participate in this proposed EV revolution.
Sen. Joe Manchin should be applauded for his support of the infrastructure plan and for his continued service to our beloved Mountain State. As the budget reconciliation discussions progresses, I hope to see his support for clean energy initiatives continue, and go even bolder. Sen. Manchin is crucial in the fight to bring new energy jobs to West Virginia. The infrastructure package and budget reconciliation are the keys to further success.
Delegate Evan Hansen, D-Monongalia, represents the 51st District in the House of Delegates. Steve Crum is an international representative for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, 4th District.
