VCU researcher examines air quality concerns tied to Virginia data centers
A VCU researcher is examining air quality concerns from data center backup diesel generators in Virginia, finding emissions in Northern Virginia comparable to a natural gas power plant. Residents in Hanover and Goochland counties have voiced strong opposition, leading to the rejection of a large data center proposal in Hanover County. The Data Center Coalition states the industry is committed to compliance and minimizes emissions, citing a JLARC study that found data center emissions well below permitted levels.
Dr. Damian Pitt from VCU's Institute for Sustainable Energy and Environment has been researching the air quality impacts of backup diesel generators at Virginia data centers. His study suggests that the collective emissions from data centers in Northern Virginia could be comparable to those from a natural gas power plant in the region, raising concerns beyond visible pollution to include noise, construction, and broader impacts on water supply and clean energy goals. Residents across Central Virginia, particularly in Hanover and Goochland counties, have expressed significant opposition to data center expansion, citing worries about noise, emissions, waste, water, power consumption, and job creation.
This public outcry led to a notable outcome in Hanover County, where supervisors recently rejected the controversial 430-acre Mountain Road Technology Park proposal. Despite this, other large projects, such as the Beaverdam Technology Park near Ashland, continue to advance. The Data Center Coalition (DCC) issued a statement in response to the VCU study, asserting the industry's commitment to responsible operation and compliance with state and federal environmental regulations.
The DCC highlighted findings from the Virginia Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission (JLARC) study, which indicated minimal use of backup power sources and emissions levels significantly below permitted maximums. The coalition also noted a lack of engagement during the VCU study and expressed skepticism about its methodology and relevance. The industry group reaffirmed its active collaboration with federal agencies like the DOE and EPA to support grid reliability, public health, and national security.