On the final day to act on new legislation, West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey signed House Bill 2014, a bold move designed to position the Mountain State as a leader in data center development and energy innovation. The signing ceremony took place Wednesday morning at the West Virginia Army National Guard Recruiting Center in Point Pleasant.
The bill, titled the Power Generation and Consumption Act, is aimed at attracting high-impact data centers and encouraging the use of microgrids powered by coal, natural gas, and renewable energy. The goal is to create a business-friendly environment that draws cutting-edge industries while also using West Virginia’s natural energy resources.
“West Virginia is America’s energy state,” said Gov. Morrisey. “This new law shows the country we’re serious about growth. We’re ready to leverage our resources like never before to benefit our citizens.”
HB 2014 builds upon previous legislation, including the 2022 Certified Industrial Business Expansion Development Program. That program initially allowed two microgrid districts, including one for Berkshire Hathaway’s solar-powered titanium facility in Jackson County. The new law expands the program, allowing more microgrid districts specifically tied to data centers. At least 70% of electricity produced in these zones must be consumed by data centers.
These districts will enjoy streamlined regulations, including exemptions from oversight by the state Public Service Commission. This means faster development timelines and fewer bureaucratic hurdles. However, the bill also protects existing utility customers from costs related to these new projects—those expenses will be covered by the developers and users within the district.
Morrisey highlighted how this legislation will help the U.S. compete with countries like China, which continues to rapidly build coal-fired power plants and dominate computing and artificial intelligence infrastructure.
“If we don’t boost our power production, especially coal and gas, we risk falling behind in the global tech race,” Morrisey warned.
HB 2014 also introduces a new taxation model. Property taxes from these data centers will be filed directly with the Board of Public Works. Revenue will be distributed to reduce personal income taxes, fund counties, and support a new Electric Grid Stabilization and Security Fund. This fund will invest in both traditional and renewable energy infrastructure.
Despite criticism from some county officials who fear loss of local control, Morrisey emphasized the long-term economic benefits. “This is brand-new money,” he said. “It’s a great deal for counties, and we’re creating generational opportunities.”
The ceremony’s location was symbolic—it’s near where Fidelis New Energy is building a $2 billion data center campus, powered in part by clean hydrogen. The Monarch AI campus is expected to be a game-changer for Mason County and the Ohio River region.
Morrisey was joined by key legislators including Senator Glenn Jeffries and Delegate Bob Fehrenbacher, who both played central roles in passing the bill.
“This is the most impactful legislation of the session,” said Fehrenbacher. Jeffries added, “This marks a transformational day for West Virginia.”
In addition to HB 2014, Morrisey also signed HB 2002, creating a one-stop permitting shop and dashboard to simplify the permitting process for businesses working with multiple state agencies.
Together, these new laws reflect a bold new chapter in West Virginia’s approach to economic development, energy policy, and technological infrastructure.
