Microgrid Bill Advances In Senate, But Not Without Debate

Gov. Patrick Morrisey said Tuesday that a hydrogen-fueled microgrid would be built in Mason County to power a data center.

To allow that, state lawmakers will need to approve Senate Bill 552, which enables a microgrid to be powered by any source of electricity, not just renewables.

One microgrid is currently under construction in Jackson County by Berkshire Hathaway Energy to power a titanium factory with solar.

The data center microgrid, called the Mountaineer Gigasystem Site, will be powered by hydrogen generated from coal, gas and biomass from timber.

The Senate Economic Development Committee approved SB 552 on Tuesday, but not without debate.

Randall Short, director of regulatory services for American Electric Power, told the committee that the arrangement had the potential to increase Appalachian Power bills – a flashpoint for many residents frustrated with the rising cost of electricity.

Though it would generate its own power, the microgrid would also be connected to the grid.

“If they self-generate but need to take backup service from us, it actually could increase bills for our customers,” Short said.

Sen. Rupie Phillips, R-Logan, made his opposition clear.

“Mr. Chairman, I just don’t think it’s right that we’re going to bring industries in here and raise mamaw’s bill,” Phillips said.

Sen. Charles Clements, R-Wetzel, said he was persuaded by the need for economic development.

“And I think we as a state of West Virginia need to do everything that we can do to bring jobs into our state,” Clements said.

The committee approved the bill and referred it to the full Senate.