West Virginia rural communities clash over data center growth, citing resource strain and limited local benefits despite promises of jobs and revenue.

Residents and supporters of data center expansion in rural West Virginia are criticizing the projects for depleting water, land, and electricity resources, creating few long-term jobs, and taking economic benefits away from local communities. Critics caution that the boom increases consumer energy costs, increases reliance on fossil fuels, and weakens local control through laws like HB 2014. In the meantime, supporters like Woody Thrasher contend that data centers can provide high-paying jobs, tax income, and long-term investments that support infrastructure, education, and conservation—offering a way to strike a balance between economic growth and environmental protection—with careful planning and sustainability commitments.