More local control loss, conflict-of-interest concerns loom in WV data center fight

Despite overwhelming public opposition, a recent legislative session in West Virginia, which concluded on March 14, has paved the way for a surge in data center development and a reduction in local control over such projects. Public comments submitted to Gov. Patrick Morrisey's administration's long-term energy policy plan in December, obtained by the Gazette-Mail through a Freedom of Information Act request from the Department of Commerce, largely expressed disapproval of data center expansion. Over two-thirds of the 80 comments reviewed by the Gazette-Mail specifically voiced opposition to data centers or the associated buildout of transmission power line infrastructure required to support them, indicating a significant disconnect between public sentiment and legislative outcomes.