BUFFALO, W.Va. — Google plans to build a data center in Putnam County.
The tech giant at purchased land in Buffalo for what Gov. Patrick Morrisey calls a multi-billion dollar High Impact Development Project.
“Google’s decision to come in West Virginia is a strong signal that our state is competing and winning for the jobs and industries of the future,” Morrisey said in a Friday morning news release. “This is exactly the kind of opportunity we are working to bring here – one that creates jobs, strengthens infrastructure, and positions West Virginia for long-term growth.”
Morrisey said the project is in its early stages with additional announcements coming. Morrisey said Google will be covering 100 percent of the electricity used to power the facility.
“I am also pleased to announce that Google has committed to covering all necessary electrical and water and sewer upgrades associated with this project, ensuring those costs are not passed on to residential households,” Morrisey said. “Google has further pledged to replenish more water than it consumes by 2030, targeting 120 percent replenishment on average across its operations while supporting water security in the communities where it operates. We are excited about this partnership between the State of West Virginia and Google.”
Putnam County Economic Development Authority Executive Director Morganne Tenney said Google is doing its due diligence on the project.
“Google has company goals committed to sustainability and “paying its way” regarding utility infrastructure while complying with all state and federal permitting processes,” Tenney said. “The company engaged the Putnam County Development Authority to better understand the local community and has been receptive to the PCDA’s feedback on ways it can provide value. PCDA is enthusiastic to see what positive impact Google can make in West Virginia after learning about the company’s impact in other states through primary and ancillary jobs, infrastructure improvements, and significant financial contributions.”
The sprawling Toyota West Virginia production plant is also located in Buffalo where there’s a lot of flat land along the Kanawha River.
This is a developing story and will be updated.