Article

West Virginia lawmakers approved changes to rules for certifying microgrids and high impact data centers, following over 900 public comments. The rules, linked to House Bill 2014, clarify environmental compliance, redefine property terms, and establish developer responsibilities regarding potential burdens on nearby properties.

Developers must identify significant risks and propose mitigation strategies, while the Department of Commerce retains the right to verify claims. An amendment for public access to certification documents was proposed but rejected, citing concerns over confidentiality and competitive implications. The approved rules will be legislated in a future session, requiring approval from both legislative chambers.