‘Empty promises:’ Residents lament lack of protections as data center developments unfold across WV

By: Caity Coyne

Outlets: West Virginia Watch

Published: March 31, 2026

Words: 2,691

Last Updated: 4 months ago

Body Text Preview

As people across West Virginia brace for how proposed data centers will alter their communities and their lives, state lawmakers took no substantial action this legislative session to mitigate the harms residents fear the developments could bring.

Though numerous bills were introduced by both Republicans and Democrats to put safeguards on the developments — like implementing limits on water usage, increasing transparency for the public, restoring some local control and creating a buffer zone between …

Create a free account to access this story and more

Join Plucky Wire to access full stories, collaborate with newsrooms, and discover content from networks around the world.

About

FAQ

Email Us