Charleston, W.Va. — Spilman Thomas & Battle (Spilman) announced that Nicholas S. Preservati, Member attorney in the law firm's Charleston office, was appointed to the West Virginia Public Energy Authority (PEA) by Governor Jim Justice.

"I'm honored by Governor Justice's appointment," Preservati said. "West Virginia is uniquely positioned to be an energy giant on a national and even international scale. It is a privilege to be able to assist the PEA with its unique statutory role in making that happen."

Preservati has devoted much of his 25 years in practice to serving clients in the energy industry, particularly in complex litigation matters. The Preservati family operated Met Resources LLC, a coal mining company, until it sold its mining operations in 2018. 

"Nick is uniquely qualified for this position on the PEA due to his previous experience and as a lawyer for others in the energy sector," said Michael J. Basile, Spilman's Managing Member. "I have every confidence that he will work in this position to the betterment of West Virginia."

Governor Justice reactivated the PEA in 2021 with a goal to foster, encourage and promote the mineral development industry in West Virginia. It also will assist in developing the next generation of long-term policies that will utilize all of the state's energy resources.

Preservati's term runs through June 30, 2024. During this time, he will continue his law practice at Spilman.

About Spilman Thomas & Battle, PLLC
Spilman Thomas & Battle is a full-service, super-regional law firm serving local, regional, national and international businesses. Founded in 1864, Spilman has offices in Charleston, Morgantown and Wheeling, West Virginia; Winston-Salem, North Carolina; Harrisburg and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and Roanoke, Virginia.