Protesters rally at Capitol over data center concerns: 'Virginia does not belong to big tech'
Dozens of Virginians rallied at the Capitol, demanding an immediate pause on data center permits due to concerns about water, energy, and community impact. Activists highlighted specific issues in Botetourt, Henrico, and Hanover counties, advocating for greater transparency and community involvement in development decisions. The protest underscored ongoing opposition to rapid data center expansion across the state.
Dozens of Virginians gathered at the Capitol Bell Tower in Richmond on Saturday to protest the rapid expansion of data centers across the commonwealth, demanding an immediate pause on all state data center permitting. The demonstration, organized by groups including the Virginia League of Conservation Voters and the Henrico NAACP, highlighted concerns over the environmental impact, resource strain, and disruption to communities.
Sarah Ahmed of the Virginia League of Conservation Voters urged lawmakers to implement "guard rails" or an immediate pause on permits. Kathryn Hatam, representing Botetourt County, cited a proposed Google Data Center there, expressing alarm over new records indicating a potential water usage of 11-12 million gallons daily, a significant increase from previous estimates, threatening local water resources like the Spring Hollow Reservoir. Monica Hutchinson of the Henrico NAACP emphasized the need for total transparency, an end to "backroom rezoning" and "secret deals," and community involvement from the outset of any project.
Hanover County activist Jennifer Corpus shared that local community organizing in Hanover had successfully pushed back against multiple data center proposals, demonstrating that "people can be stronger than corporate money." The protestors collectively called for state lawmakers to prioritize clean air, protected water, quiet neighborhoods, and healthy ecosystems, asserting that Virginia should not be perceived as solely belonging to "big tech."