Danville protesters call for pause on new Virginia data centers
Protesters gathered in Danville to urge Virginia lawmakers to pause approvals for new data centers. They cited concerns about rising utility costs, water consumption, drought conditions, transparency and the proposed Berry Hill megasite in Pittsylvania County, which could include up to 21 data centers and two natural gas-fired power facilities.
Protesters gathered in downtown Danville as part of a statewide campaign organized by Virginia Organizing to call for a moratorium on approvals for new data centers. Organizers said residents need more information about the developments’ effects on water supplies, electricity costs, local communities and public participation before additional projects move forward.
The demonstration focused in part on the proposed Berry Hill megasite in Pittsylvania County, where plans call for as many as 21 data centers and two natural gas-fired generating facilities. Organizer Elizabeth Chaves and protester Cadashia Guthrie said residents deserve greater transparency about the project’s economic benefits, utility impacts and nondisclosure agreements, while organizers urged the Virginia General Assembly to consider a pause when it returns in January.