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SB 15

Strengthening protections for certain natural resource interests affected by carbon capture and underground carbon storage projects

2026 Regular Session

West Virginia SB 15 mandates compensation and land-use protocols for property owners affected by carbon capture storage projects to protect mineral rights and surface interests.

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Bill Summary · SB 15

Legislative bill overview

SB 15 establishes regulatory protections and compensation mechanisms for property owners and natural resource interests (such as mineral rights holders) affected by carbon capture and storage (CCS) projects in West Virginia. The bill defines the rights of surface owners, mineral rights holders, and other stakeholders when CCS infrastructure is developed on their land, including provisions for easements, liability, and financial compensation.

Why is this important

As carbon capture technology expands nationally, disputes over land use rights and subsurface access could significantly impact property owners and resource extraction industries. This bill attempts to balance climate technology development with protecting existing economic interests in a state heavily dependent on coal and natural gas industries, potentially serving as a model for other resource-rich states.

Potential points of contention

  • Stranded mineral rights: The bill's definitions of which subsurface rights take precedence (CCS storage vs. traditional mineral extraction) could create conflicts between coal/gas operators and CCS project developers
  • Compensation standards: Disputes may arise over whether mandated compensation adequately reflects long-term loss of access to mineral deposits or creates unfair advantages for CCS companies
  • Regulatory authority: Questions about whether the state Public Service Commission has adequate expertise and resources to adjudicate complex subsurface disputes between multiple competing interests

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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