The Voltage Valley Revolution: Appalachia’s Path to a Brighter Future

I asked the people who call Appalachia home: What makes this place tick? The answer lies in their deep need to reclaim control of their lives, communities, and future. This desire isn’t unique to Appalachia—it’s a fundamental human need. For generations, the people of Appalachia have faced challenges beyond their control, from the rise and fall of the coal industry to its social and environmental aftermath. But the resilient people of this region have always sought to reclaim their future.

Now, they have a chance to do just that. The Voltage Valley Revolution (VVR) is transforming Appalachia into a hub for clean energy and sustainable manufacturing. It’s not just about creating jobs—it’s about empowering Appalachians to take control of their economic destiny and build a future based on innovation, sustainability, and self-reliance.

So, what is the VVR?

The VVR represents a shift from Appalachia’s coal-dependent past to a future powered by renewable energy like hydrogen, solar, and wind. Advanced technologies like electric vehicles, battery storage, and materials science will shape industries that work with the land, creating sustainable jobs that benefit the region long-term.

This revolution is driven by federal support through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which is investing billions into clean energy and advanced manufacturing in regions like Appalachia. The IRA provides opportunities for businesses to invest in green technologies while creating jobs in a region that has long been overlooked.

But it’s not just about policy—visionaries from across the country are recognizing Appalachia’s potential. With a workforce defined by grit and determination, Appalachia is blending local expertise with outside innovation to drive its future.

The Purpose of This Book 

The purpose of this book is twofold:

1. To tell the stories of the people already participating in the Voltage Valley Revolution.
2. To encourage even more people to get involved in this movement.

Through these stories, you’ll meet pioneers in clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and sustainable technologies—individuals who are reclaiming control of their lives and helping build a new Appalachia.

This book is a call to action. The VVR is still in its early stages, and its success depends on local communities, business leaders, innovators, and workers joining the effort to transform Appalachia into a region of untapped potential.

More Than Just Profit—It’s About People and Planet 

The Voltage Valley Revolution is about more than just profit—it’s about building a future that works for both the people and the planet. Sustainable practices are at the heart of this movement, protecting the land, air, and water while ensuring that Appalachia’s communities thrive.

A New Era for Appalachia 

The Voltage Valley Revolution is transforming Appalachia from a coal past into a leader in clean energy and advanced technologies. This revolution embodies the resilience, pride, and community that have always defined Appalachia.

This is Appalachia’s revolution. It’s an opportunity to rise from the challenges of the past and thrive in a new era of innovation. We invite you, through the stories in this book, to witness this transformation—and to be part of it.