Growing concerns over data center noise in northern Virginia

Residents in Sterling, Loudoun County, Virginia, are facing significant noise pollution from a nearby Vantage data center located on Glen Drive. Lindsay Shaw, a local resident, described the incessant high-pitched ringing as "debilitating," impacting their ability to enjoy their outdoor spaces. The data center is notable for generating its own power using eight natural gas turbines operating 24/7, rather than connecting to the public grid, which residents claim is the source of the continuous noise.

Loudoun County officials are aware of the numerous complaints regarding data center noise and are engaged in internal discussions to address the problem. Loudoun County Supervisor Mike Turner indicated that potential solutions include amending the existing zoning and noise ordinances. Currently, industrial noise is limited to 55 decibels for industrial noise measured at residential property lines, and some neighbors assert that the data center's noise levels exceed this threshold.

A county spokesperson confirmed that more than a dozen noise complaints have been registered this year, primarily concerning the Vantage facility. While staff measurements have been taken at various sites, the county recognizes the presence of a tonal noise that residents can hear, a type of sound not currently measured by the zoning ordinance. Residents are urging for stricter regulations to maintain their quality of life in an area known as a global data center hub.