State faces new extractive industry : NPR

Key Points:

• The proposed Ridgeline data center and accompanying 785-megawatt natural gas power plant in Tucker County, West Virginia, threaten to bring large-scale industrial development to a region known for its dark skies, natural beauty, and outdoor recreation, raising environmental and community concerns.
• Residents and environmental groups oppose the project due to potential air and water pollution, light pollution impacting nearby Blackwater Falls State Park, and a lack of local zoning control following recent state legislation exempting data centers from many regulations.
• Supporters argue the project could bring much-needed economic development and jobs to a historically poor state, while opponents fear a repeat of past extractive industry exploitation and environmental degradation in the region.
• Local grassroots group Tucker United and allied organizations have challenged the project’s air-quality permit in court, citing health risks and environmental dangers, but face legal and political obstacles, including perceived conflicts of interest involving state lawmakers.
• Despite the controversy, the community remains culturally vibrant and engaged, drawing hope from past successful environmental fights and a growing national push for responsible data center development policies.