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On the final day of the legislative session, lawmakers passed HB 2014—a sweeping bill that removes local control over massive “microgrid” power plants and data centers. Counties and towns now have no say in where these projects go or how they’re built.
Soon after, the WV Highlands Conservancy uncovered a heavily redacted air permit for a natural gas plant near Thomas—likely tied to a data center. Local officials had no idea it was coming. Similar projects are emerging in Logan and Mingo Counties, confirming what many feared: this bill has triggered a statewide blitz.
At a packed town hall in Davis, Conservancy board member Tyler Cannon put it bluntly: “It’s clear that there’s going to be a blitz.” The next day, residents formed Tucker United, a grassroots group pushing back and urging the Governor to veto the bill.
Groups like the WV Highlands Conservancy and Friends of Blackwater are sounding the alarm—not against progress, but against secrecy, rushed development, and the erasure of local voices. The permit process now underway will set the tone for what comes next across the state.
Take Action:
- Submit a written comment on Fundamental Data LLC’s air permit (R13-3713). The deadline has been extended—you can still speak up
- Learn more and get involved with groups like Tucker United and Friends of Blackwater
- Read WVEC Vice President Quenton King’s op-ed for a powerful perspective on why this fight matters
Your voice matters. The fight for transparency, local control, and a healthy future starts now.
