State, company disagree on Tucker County data center deadline
The West Virginia Department of Commerce and Fundamental Data, LLC are in a public disagreement regarding a planned Ridgeline power plant and data center in Tucker County. The state claims Fundamental Data missed a deadline to file for "High Impact Data Center" certification, while the company asserts there was no applicable deadline.
The West Virginia Department of Commerce alleges that Fundamental Data, LLC, the company behind the proposed Ridgeline power plant and data center in Tucker County, missed a critical deadline. According to Deputy Commerce Secretary Nicholas Preservati, Fundamental Data was required to submit a request for "High Impact Data Center" certification by June 17, 2026, following a May 18, 2026 meeting where project details were disclosed.
Fundamental Data disputes this claim, with Casey Chapman stating that the Commerce Department appears to be confusing "High Impact Data Centers" with "Certified Microgrid Districts." Chapman argues that the rules for "High Impact Data Centers" do not apply to their project, and while "Certified Microgrid District" certification could apply, it is an elective regulatory status with no associated filing deadline.
The Commerce Department has requested Fundamental Data to clarify their project plans within five business days if they believe it is not subject to House Bill 2014's requirements. Fundamental Data expressed disappointment with the state's approach to a company investing in West Virginia.