A planned project in southern West Virginia could serve as inspiration for revitalizing coal mine sites throughout the state, should it see the potential its developers hope. SEVA WV is investing $352 million to turn a former Boone and Lincoln county coal site into a solar farm, industrial park and tourist destination, in conjunction with the Hatfield McCoy ATV trails.
Mountain State residents have had good reason to be skeptical of economic develop announcements in recent years, but there are a few details about SEVA WV that make it a little easier to be optimistic about the news.
"With West Virginia becoming a destination location, it is very important that we invested in something that would give back to the economy," SEVA WV President Devanna Corley told WSAZ. "There are many things that we are going to do that are going to be very West Virginia-centric and that will utilize our own workforce in getting the project completed."
SEVA WV is part of Savion Energy, and officials from the company said they plan to work with local organizations such as Southern West Virginia Technical College, local builders, and other groups in the region to make the project a reality.
The work is expected to be completed by 2024.
"This is an exciting day for Boone and Lincoln counties, there are incredible opportunities in our communities. I would like to commend SEVA WV and this endeavor to create the SunPark that will boost our economy and expand the region for future economic development activity," said U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va.
Entrepreneurs who understand the enormous potential in West Virginia can do great work toward diversifying and expanding our economy, if we let them. SEVA WV's plans appear to be an encouraging example. Perhaps others will follow their lead.