Gov. Spanberger reveals Data Center Accountability Framework

Governor Abigail Spanberger announced Virginia's Data Center Accountability Framework on September 18 in Richmond, Virginia. This comprehensive framework, partially implemented through Executive Order 22, seeks to overhaul the state's approach to data center development, addressing concerns about environmental impact, energy costs, land use, and community input. The Governor stated that the previous approach lacked a clear plan to mitigate data centers' effects on residents' electric bills, water, land, and quality of life.

Key elements of the framework include increasing transparency by banning non-disclosure agreements for data center plans, which have previously limited community involvement. It also empowers local governments by eliminating "by-right" approval for data centers consuming over 25 megawatts of power, mandating local approval instead. Furthermore, the framework will end state subsidies for data centers in site development programs and remove large data centers from Virginia's fast-track permitting process.

Environmentally, the framework aims to establish standards for energy efficiency, water use, land impacts, and backup generation, requiring some centers to transition from diesel to cleaner power sources. Financially, it seeks to protect homeowners by allocating energy costs driven by data centers directly to those facilities and requires upfront financial commitments to prevent energy waste. Additionally, it promotes grid reliability through clean energy options and prioritizes local hiring, Virginia businesses, and apprenticeship programs in data center development.