Rally in Richmond to stop Virginia data centers
Hundreds of demonstrators rallied in Richmond to demand a moratorium on new data center construction across Virginia, citing rising electricity costs and environmental concerns. State Sen. Russet Perry is backing a bill for a three-year ban, while Gov. Abigail Spanberger has signed an executive order imposing certain restrictions but stopping short of a full construction pause.
Hundreds of Virginians gathered at Richmond's Capitol Square to call for an indefinite moratorium on new data centers. Demonstrators from communities including Petersburg, Chesapeake and Hanover said data center growth is contributing to higher electricity costs and environmental concerns, while arguing that existing projects already in the development pipeline should be monitored closely.
Gov. Abigail Spanberger said she shares the concerns and recently signed an executive order barring state agencies from entering non-disclosure agreements for data center projects, adding noise regulations and giving localities more negotiating tools. The order does not halt construction. State Sen. Russet Perry has introduced a bipartisan bill seeking a three-year ban, with Sen. Glen Sturtevant also urging immediate action. A data center coalition spokesperson cautioned that lawmakers should weigh restrictions carefully to avoid portraying Virginia as closed to business.