Data Center Panel Brings Opposing Viewpoints to Tucker County
A panel discussion in Tucker County, West Virginia, featuring state delegates, government officials, and an opposition group, debated data center development. Topics included the existing HB 2014 law, local control, environmental concerns, energy demands, and the state's process for approving projects. Community sentiment, particularly regarding the Ridgeline Project, was highlighted.
A panel discussion in Davis, Tucker County, West Virginia, co-sponsored by Mountain State Spotlight and Country Roads News, brought together state officials and community representatives to debate data center development. Director of the West Virginia Data Economy Office, Chris Morris, emphasized his office's goal of discerning responsible projects and creating an approval process the state can be proud of, noting two non-Tucker County projects have already been approved.
Amy Margolies, Executive Director of Tucker United, represented strong community opposition, citing a statistic that 70% of Americans prefer not to live near data centers and expressing frustration that the Air Quality Board disregarded 1,600 community comments on the Ridgeline Permit. West Virginia Delegates JD Akers and Evan Hansen discussed HB 2014, the state's data center law. Akers, while "agnostic" on the Ridgeline Project and Fundamental Data, underscored the need for projects to fit their communities and addressed the state's challenge of retaining young people. Hansen highlighted what he saw as flaws in HB 2014, particularly regarding water resources and tax base, and noted a failed amendment for local control.
Panelists also debated power generation needs, with Akers emphasizing the potential drain on the existing grid and the possibility of small data centers operating outside HB 2014's scope. Morris dismissed the idea of space-based data centers and expressed unfamiliarity with decommissioned facilities. Akers voiced concerns about counties becoming like Loudoun County but also stressed the importance of responsible development and local control. Morris concluded by noting agreement with Margolies on many issues and announced plans for a Governor-reporting Advisory Council within 30-60 days to seek members statewide.