Advanced coal reformation facility to create thousands of jobs and expand commercial uses of coal
MASON COUNTY, W.Va. — Patrick Morrisey, Governor of West Virginia, announced that Frontieras North America has finalized the purchase of 183 acres in Mason County for the development of an $850 million advanced coal reformation facility, marking one of the largest private-sector energy investments in the state’s recent history.
The flagship project is expected to generate more than 2,000 construction jobs and over 200 permanent, full-time positions once fully operational, significantly boosting employment and industrial activity in the Ohio River Valley region.
“This investment proves that West Virginia’s workforce, infrastructure, and pro-business climate can compete nationally for transformational projects,” Governor Morrisey said. “Frontieras’ decision aligns perfectly with our 50 by 50 energy vision and our commitment to cutting red tape while expanding high-paying job opportunities across the state.”
The Mason County facility will represent the first commercial-scale deployment of Frontieras’ proprietary FASForm™ technology, a zero-waste process that converts coal into fuels, fertilizers, and industrial carbon products. The project expands the role of coal beyond traditional electricity generation, opening new industrial and manufacturing markets for Appalachian resources.
The site offers more than one mile of Ohio River frontage for barge transportation, Class I rail service via CSX, and proximity to regional coal reserves—key factors in the company’s site selection decision.
“West Virginia offered a compelling combination of natural resources, logistics capabilities, and a leadership team that understands the importance of industrial innovation,” said Matthew McKean, CEO and co-founder of Frontieras North America. “This location gives us the infrastructure and workforce needed to scale our technology and deliver long-term value.”
State officials emphasized the project’s role in strengthening coal communities by creating new demand streams and diversifying the state’s energy economy.
“By supporting advanced technologies that build on our existing strengths, we are delivering real economic opportunity for workers, families, and communities throughout the Mountain State,” Governor Morrisey added.
Frontieras selected Mason County over competing sites in Texas and Wyoming, citing West Virginia’s logistics advantages, infrastructure readiness, and energy-forward policy environment. The company is also evaluating additional expansion opportunities across West Virginia and the broader Appalachian region.
The investment supports Governor Morrisey’s “50 by 50” energy strategy, which aims to expand power production, increase industrial energy use, and reinforce West Virginia’s position as a national leader in energy innovation.
