Bill > HB4509

This bill aims to restore local government jurisdiction over certain electric power facilities, specifically "certified microgrid districts" and "certified high impact data centers." A "certified microgrid district" is a microgrid project that has been officially recognized by the Secretary of the Department of Commerce, and a "certified high impact data center" is a data center project similarly certified. Previously, state law largely prevented counties and municipalities from regulating these types of projects, including zoning, permitting, and land use. This bill modifies that by allowing local governments to have jurisdiction, though it still designates the Department of Commerce to assist in their development and operation, with a "Data Economy Liaison" serving as a point of contact. The bill also allows state departments like Commerce, Environmental Protection, and Transportation to support the development of these projects, including infrastructure improvements.

Transportation and Infrastructure

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=4509&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill