Virginia Experts Concerned About Long-Term Water Impact of Google Data Center
Experts are concerned about the long-term water impact of Google's planned data center in Botetourt County, Virginia. The facility plans to draw up to 2 million gallons of water daily from Carvins Cove, potentially increasing to 8 million gallons. Virginia Tech experts warn of compounding stress from climate change, population growth, and aging infrastructure on the reservoir's health.
The WDBJ7 channel is covering the long-term water impact of Google's planned data center in Botetourt County, Virginia. The facility is expected to initially draw up to 2 million gallons of water daily from Carvins Cove, with potential future expansion to 8 million gallons per day, pending approval from the Western Virginia Water Authority.
While the Water Authority asserts that Carvins Cove can manage this additional demand, even amid ongoing drought conditions, outside experts express significant concern. Dr. Manusher Shiressii, a Virginia Tech professor and engineer specializing in water systems, voiced worries about the age and infrastructure of Carvins Cove, which was built in 1928 and filled in 1946.
Experts highlight that the water supply faces a "combination of compounding effects" including climate change, population growth, increased economic demand, and aging infrastructure. These factors, combined with the substantial water usage by the data center, raise questions about the long-term health of the reservoir.