West Virginia Governor Jim Justice announced on Tuesday that plans for a proposed economic development project involving renewable energy in southern West Virginia will be delayed until the February legislative session. The project, which could involve a $30 billion investment, was almost fast-tracked through a special session last Saturday but concerns over timing, with newly elected lawmakers set to take office, led to the decision to wait. The proposed bill, SB 4001, aimed to make changes to the Certified Industrial Business Expansion Development program to facilitate the project. The project, which remains unnamed, could include a data center in Logan County powered by renewable and fossil fuel energy.
Justice emphasized the importance of bringing projects to southern West Virginia and ensuring they do not harm coal mining jobs in the region. The draft bill would have increased the number of allowed industrial business development districts, removed certain requirements for establishing these districts, and allowed tax breaks for electric-generating units. The company behind the project approached the Governor’s Office and legislative leadership a few weeks ago, but lawmakers only became aware of the potential special session last Wednesday.
With the special session ruled out due to timing constraints, Justice expressed confidence that the company will wait until the regular legislative session in February. The decision to delay the project was made to ensure that all concerns, particularly regarding coal mining jobs, are addressed before moving forward. By waiting for the regular session, officials will have more time to ensure all stakeholders are on board and can participate in the process.
Source
Photo credit www.theintelligencer.net