Relating to certified microgrid district projects and certified high impact data center projects

Senate Bill 658 establishes a framework for "certified microgrid districts" and "certified high-impact data center projects" in West Virginia, directly affecting developers of these facilities and local governments. The bill prohibits counties and municipalities from imposing local zoning, building permits, or other regulatory requirements on these certified projects, centralizing oversight under the state Department of Commerce. However, project owners must still pay standard local taxes and fees, including business taxes, sales taxes, property taxes, and utility charges, at the same rates as other businesses. The bill aims to streamline development of these projects while preserving local revenue streams through existing tax structures.