Google has acquired land for potential data center in Putnam County, officials announce

A new data center project could be in the works in Putnam County, and this one is backed by one of the largest tech companies in the world. Google has purchased land in the Buffalo area for a potential data center campus, according to a statement from the Putnam County Development Authority. A news release from West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey said the company has received approval for a multibillion-dollar “High Impact Development Project.” Del. Kathie Hess Crouse, who represents Putnam County, said in a social media post that the land purchase includes about 1,700 acres at the north end of Buffalo. Putnam County officials said the company is in the early stages and has been and continues to conduct research to determine whether the site is even viable for the data center plan. “The company engaged the Putnam County Development Authority to better understand the local community and has been receptive to the PCDA’s feedback on ways it can provide value," Putnam County Development Authority Executive Director Morganne Tenney said in the statement. "PCDA is enthusiastic to see what positive impact Google can make in West Virginia after learning about the company’s impact in other states through primary and ancillary jobs, infrastructure improvements and significant financial contributions." Crouse said the project is at least a year away from any potential construction. As part of the long-term plan, Google will be covering 100% of the electricity used to power the facility. Morrisey also said the company has also committed to covering all water and sewer upgrades needed, “ensuring those costs are not passed on to residential households.” “Google has further pledged to replenish more water than it consumes by 2030, targeting 120% replenishment on average across its operations while supporting water security in the communities where it operates,” Morrisey said. We are excited about this partnership between the State of West Virginia and Google.” The governor called the announcement a sign that the state is being competitive in the economy. “Google’s decision to come in West Virginia is a strong signal that our state is competing and winning for the jobs and industries of the future,” he said. “This is exactly the kind of opportunity we are working to bring here - one that creates jobs, strengthens infrastructure and positions West Virginia for long-term growth.” Similar Google campuses in other states have generated thousands of construction jobs and hundreds of full-time positions, the governor’s news release said. The announcement comes after the West Virginia Legislature recently passed laws like House Bill 2014 that establish a clear framework for the establishment of new data center projects in the state. FULL STORY: https://wchstv.com/news/local/google-has-acquired-land-for-potential-data-center-in-putnam-county-officials-announce _________________________________________ For the latest local and national news, visit our website: https://wchstv.com/ Sign up for our newsletter: https://wchstv.com/sign-up Follow WCHS-TV on social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharleston/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/wchs8fox11​ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wchs8fox11/