Monroe County residents raise concerns about potential data center
Monroe County residents are expressing significant concerns regarding a rumored data center project, fearing increased electricity bills and potential impacts on local water resources. A community meeting is planned to educate citizens about these potential effects. The Monroe County Commission stated that state legislation, such as the Power Generation and Consumption Act, limits local authority over certified data center projects.
Monroe County, West Virginia, residents are raising significant concerns about the potential development of a data center in their area, despite Governor Patrick Morrisey's earlier announcement of $4 billion in private investment for data centers across the state.
Local resident Reni Fulton stated opposition to the prospective data center, citing worries about increased electric bills and extensive water usage. Citizens point to issues observed with data centers in Mason County, West Virginia, and parts of Northern Virginia, including reports of a 200% increase in electricity costs for some residents there. Environmental concerns are also prominent, with fears of drought, reduced water availability, and aquifer damage.
In February, the Monroe County Commission released a statement indicating they were unaware of any specific data center project, but acknowledged that recent legislation, such as the Power Generation and Consumption Act, restricts local governmental authority over certified projects of this nature.
Concerned citizens are organizing a community meeting on June 30 at 6:30 p.m. at the Lindside Family Center to inform and educate Monroe County residents about the demands and potential impacts of data centers on their community.