Youngkin Says Communities and Data Centers Need a Transparent Water Debate | APT
Former Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin advocates for transparent discussions on data center water and power usage. He believes communities should lead decisions on data center siting and engage with developers and hyperscalers directly on these concerns.
Former Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin has called for transparent and candid discussions regarding water usage as communities grapple with the rapid expansion of data centers, particularly in Virginia. Youngkin emphasized that decisions on data center siting should be made by local communities and their elected representatives, not imposed from state or federal levels.
He stated that the best approach involves bringing together local communities, developers, and major technology companies, often referred to as hyperscalers, to openly address concerns such as water usage, utility bills, power demand, and job creation. Youngkin highlighted that data center developers have a responsibility to answer community questions and ensure comfort with their plans, noting that some communities may choose to reject data center investments while others welcome them.
The former governor also referenced efforts, implicitly by the President, to demand that data center developers provide their own power, 'behind the meter,' to avoid burdening everyday ratepayers. He acknowledged the emergence of 'hybrid rates' in many states, which charge heavier power users more. Ultimately, Youngkin stressed the need to balance data center development with community concerns, advocating for listening to local voices rather than overriding them, even while acknowledging the national importance of winning the 'data center development battle against China.'