Bill > SB623

This bill establishes economic incentives to encourage data centers to locate in West Virginia, aiming to boost economic growth, technological advancement, and job creation. A "Data Center" is defined as a facility housing computer systems for data processing and storage that consumes a significant amount of electricity. To qualify for these incentives, a data center must invest at least $50 million, create 50 new jobs, be located in West Virginia, and use "Coal-Generated Electricity" (electricity where at least 75% of the energy comes from coal burned in a West Virginia facility) for at least 80% of its primary operational capacity. Qualifying data centers will receive special property tax treatment, with their personal property valued at salvage value, which is the lower of its fair market salvage value or 5% of its total value. Additionally, these data centers will be exempt from the Consumer Sales and Use Tax on equipment and tangible personal property purchased for their operation and maintenance. The bill also includes provisions for compliance, requiring data centers to repay benefits if they cease operations or fail to meet job creation thresholds within five years, and outlines an application process through the State Tax Division. Furthermore, it aims to optimize coal production and employment by ensuring that electricity generated from West Virginia coal used by these data centers is not subject to certain business and occupation taxes.

Business and Industry

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=623&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill