Virginia study on groundwater, data centers calls for tighter water regulations
Summary
Virginia released a study showing that groundwater in its eastern region is shrinking due to population growth and industrial use, including data centers. The study recommends stricter rules for water use and more government control to protect the water supply.Key Facts
- Virginia is the world’s largest hub for data centers.
- The study focuses on groundwater in Virginia’s eastern coastal plain. Groundwater is water stored underground.
- The region’s groundwater supply is limited and expected to decline soon.
- Data centers use significant amounts of water to cool their servers.
- The report suggests regulators should have stronger authority to deny water use permits and require alternatives.
- There is limited public information about how much water data centers use.
- Virginia passed its first groundwater law in 1973 and updated it in 1992, but the report says laws need tougher rules.
- Local officials report pressure to switch from groundwater to surface water due to shortages.
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