PEC calls for three-year pause on new data center approvals
The Piedmont Environmental Council is calling for Virginia to impose a three-year moratorium on new data center approvals. The group says the pause is needed to develop stronger safeguards addressing energy demand, water use, pollution, transmission infrastructure and community impacts.
The Piedmont Environmental Council is urging Virginia to halt new data center approvals for three years as the state addresses the environmental and infrastructure effects of rapid development. PEC President Chris Miller said data centers are increasing pressure on electricity systems, water infrastructure, transmission lines and communities.
The organization’s request follows Gov. Abigail Spanberger’s introduction of a new Virginia energy plan, which Miller criticized for assuming continued growth in energy demand without adequately addressing data center impacts. PEC supports a proposed moratorium bill from state Sen. Russet Perry that would stop new local approvals and certain state permits while stronger statewide standards are developed.