Productive Energy Site Reclamation Waiver

HB 4120 creates a "Productive Energy Site Reclamation Waiver" that allows surface mine operators in West Virginia to apply for a waiver of contour restoration requirements when converting former mine sites into new energy generation projects (minimum 10 megawatts). The waiver releases the mine operator from contour restoration obligations and returns proportional bond funds to them, while also relieving the state of financial responsibility for incomplete restoration costs. To qualify, new energy developers must prove financial and technical capability, including experience with similar projects. This program prioritizes sites where mines have ceased operations or where original operators lack funds for full restoration, aiming to redirect land use toward economic development. The waiver does not affect other environmental reclamation obligations like soil or water cleanup.