Ban data centers in West Virginia by constitution

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The Issue

Growing up in West Virginia, I have witnessed firsthand the unparalleled beauty and rich natural resources our state has to offer. From the rolling hills to the abundant forests, the landscape of West Virginia is a precious gift that must be preserved for the future of our children. However, the rapid expansion of data centers in our state poses a significant threat to this legacy.

Data centers, which house vast quantities of electronic data, consume enormous amounts of electricity and water, often competing with local communities for these essential resources. According to a report by the U.S. Department of Energy, data centers in the United States are expected to consume approximately 73 billion kWh of electricity in 2020 alone, which is roughly the amount of electricity consumed by 6.7 million average U.S. households. In West Virginia, where the infrastructure is strained and the natural resources are already under pressure, the unchecked growth of data centers is unsustainable.

Furthermore, the presence of data centers can lead to increased greenhouse gas emissions, as many rely on non-renewable energy sources to power their operations. This contributes to climate change, which poses a long-term threat to our environment, affecting everything from our air and water quality to the health of local wildlife and the livelihoods of our communities.

To protect West Virginia’s natural beauty and ensure a sustainable future, we must take decisive action. We are calling for a constitutional amendment that would ban the establishment of new data centers in our state. This proactive measure will help preserve our precious resources for future generations and encourage investment in clean, renewable energy solutions that align with our values.

Join me in taking a stand to protect the heart of West Virginia. Sign this petition to urge our lawmakers to support a constitutional ban on data centers, ensuring a greener, more sustainable future for us all. Together, we can make a difference for our children and the generations to come.

The Decision Makers

Patrick Morrisey
West Virginia Governor
Kris Warner
West Virginia Secretary of State
Larry Pack
West Virginia Treasurer

Supporter Voices

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