What does the term "gas" include in West Virginia?

The term "gas" in the context of West Virginia includes all natural gas as well as all fluid hydrocarbons that are not categorized as oil. This definition is important because it encompasses a broader range of hydrocarbon products, acknowledging that various forms of gas can be derived from natural sources and include different gases that have economic significance in the state’s energy landscape.

By including all fluid hydrocarbons not defined as oil, this definition effectively covers not just the conventional natural gas that most people are familiar with, but also other gas forms derived from various processes that might be important for extraction, production, and regulation within the state. This comprehensive understanding aids in legal and regulatory contexts where delineating the types of substances involved in energy production and resource management is crucial.

In contrast, limiting the definition solely to natural gas would exclude significant components of the state's hydrocarbon resources. Other options suggesting "all types of fuel sources" or "only fluid hydrocarbons" do not accurately reflect the specificities outlined in the relevant laws or regulations governing the terminology used in the energy sector in West Virginia.