Questions over water use continue as Google data center debate grows in Botetourt County
Debate continues over Google's proposed data center in Botetourt County, Virginia, with a Planning Commissioner raising concerns about the facility's potential long-term water use during droughts. The Western Virginia Water Authority disputes some claims but plans a public open house to address community questions about the project's water demands.
The proposed Google data center in Botetourt County, Virginia, continues to face scrutiny, particularly regarding its substantial water consumption. Botetourt County Planning Commissioner Mark Tyson conducted an independent 14-page water assessment, concluding that the data center's water withdrawals could severely impact the Roanoke Valley's water supply, specifically from Carvins Cove, during prolonged drought conditions. Tyson claims that under specific drought scenarios, Google's withdrawal of up to 8 million gallons of water per day could deplete Carvins Cove in just 60 days, far below critical levels.
Despite Tyson sharing his findings with the Western Virginia Water Authority, he reports receiving no detailed response to his request to validate his analysis. Sarah Baumgardner, Communications Manager for the Western Virginia Water Authority, stated that the authority has not discredited Tyson's report and offered to meet with him to discuss it. She clarified that Google is currently permitted to withdraw up to 2 million gallons per day, and the company's initial building will utilize air cooling, reducing overall water demand.
To address ongoing community concerns and provide factual information, the Western Virginia Water Authority is scheduled to host a public open house on August 25 from 4 to 7 p.m. at its Field Operations Building. This event aims to foster dialogue and provide residents with details about the project's projected water use.