12 News Exclusive: Data center official discusses Tucker County project

A proposed power plant and data center development in Tucker County, West Virginia, spearheaded by Fundamental Data, is encountering substantial public opposition. Casey Chapman, representing Fundamental Data, affirmed in an exclusive interview with 12 News that the company intends to construct long-term power and digital infrastructure, which he believes the state's workforce is capable of supporting. He also addressed concerns regarding proprietary information within the permit application, stating the company's right to protect confidential business details while adhering to all disclosure requirements. Despite protests from local groups, the West Virginia Air Quality Board granted approval for a permit for the project in February. Chapman emphasized that this permit establishes binding and enforceable limits, providing essential protections. However, the citizen's group "Tucker United" has expressed strong reservations, particularly concerning the redacted sections of the permit. Dr. Amy Margolies of Tucker United conveyed that the community requires concrete data and guarantees before accepting the company's assertions. Tucker United has subsequently filed an appeal against the permit approval, a process that could potentially reach the state Supreme Court. Despite this, Chapman remains confident that the project will proceed, projecting the creation of hundreds, if not thousands, of jobs for West Virginians, including union and skilled laborers. Dr. Margolies also mentioned that Tucker United would be amenable to an open community dialogue with Chapman, though such a discussion has not yet taken place.