Data center air pollution permit under public review
West Virginia is reviewing an air-quality permit for the Monarch Cloud Campus in Mason County. The proposed data center would use an independent power system with more than 800 engines, natural gas heaters, emergency generators and diesel firewater pumps, and public comments are due Oct. 30.
The West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection is conducting a major-source air permit review for the Monarch Cloud Campus in Mason County. The proposed power system would operate independently of the traditional electric grid and include more than 800 primary engines, six natural gas heaters, 12 emergency generators and six diesel-powered firewater pump engines.
WVDEP said its review will assess emissions modeling, operating limits, monitoring and compliance with state and federal air-quality standards. The process does not cover broader issues such as traffic, property values or economic impacts. The public comment period is open through Oct. 30, with a virtual meeting scheduled for Oct. 29.