Roanoke Water Company Addresses Google Data Center Water Usage Concerns
The Western Virginia Water Authority issued a statement clarifying Google's data center water usage in Botetourt County. The authority confirmed an agreement limiting Google to 2 million gallons per day initially, with potential for up to 8 million gallons per day contingent on current and future water demand. This statement aims to correct misinformation about the facility's water consumption.
The water usage details for Google's data center in Botetourt County have been clarified by the Western Virginia Water Authority. The Authority issued a statement to correct "misinformation" surrounding the facility's water consumption, particularly after previous reports indicated Google would initially use up to 2 million gallons of water daily, with a potential increase to 8 million gallons per day.
During negotiations in 2024, a proposal that would have allowed Google to use 10 to 11 million gallons of water per day was presented but was ultimately rejected by the Western Virginia Water Authority. The Authority stated its practice is to conduct extensive studies on water supply and customer impact before granting service to large companies.
The current agreement between Google and the Authority stipulates an initial maximum usage of 2 million gallons per day. While Google retains the option to request an increase to 8 million gallons per day in the future, any such approval is contingent on the Authority's capacity to meet the overall current and future water demands throughout its service area. The Authority currently treats 21 million gallons of water daily, having treated up to 23 million gallons per day in the past.