Gov. Morrisey: state leadership to work with local communities to chart data center future
West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey is collaborating with lawmakers and community leaders to shape the future of data center development in the state. An advisory committee will be formed to establish standards for responsible data centers, addressing concerns such as noise, setbacks, and electricity prices. The initiative also aims to protect water assets and ensure tax relief for residents.
West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey announced plans to collaborate with lawmakers and community leaders to guide the future development of data centers within the state. Citing House Bill 2014, which established initial oversight and development criteria, Governor Morrisey stated the goal is to provide clear regulatory insight for companies while ensuring community well-being.
The governor emphasized the importance of preventing noise pollution, establishing appropriate setbacks for data centers, and ensuring electricity rates do not increase due to these projects. To address these concerns and set optimal standards, an advisory committee will be formed. Morrisey also highlighted the state's commitment to protecting water assets and ensuring that data center projects contribute to tax relief for residents.
Beyond data centers, the Morrisey administration is actively working on broader water infrastructure issues across West Virginia. Following a recent listening tour in southern West Virginia, the governor noted that his administration has already invested $174 million in water and sewer projects, with more initiatives planned to resolve long-standing problems in counties such as Wayne, Wyoming, McDowell, Mingo, and Fayette.