Natural Gas Electric Generation Development Act

HB 2627, the Natural Gas Electric Generation Development Act, requires West Virginia's Economic Development Authority (WVEDA) to identify suitable sites for natural gas power plants near gas supplies and consumers. The bill mandates that WVEDA report these sites to the Air Quality Division and Public Service Commission, while requiring developers to obtain construction and operating permits with expedited review. It aims to address regulatory delays hindering natural gas electricity projects, which the legislature states are underdeveloped compared to neighboring states. The bill directly affects natural gas power developers, WVEDA, and state environmental and utility agencies by streamlining site selection and permitting processes.