Nivar, VanValkenburg talk data centers, NextEra merger, Flock cameras at Western Henrico town hall
Virginia legislators May Nivar and Schuyler VanValkenburg discussed data center regulation during a town hall in Henrico County. Community members raised concerns about data center expansion, significant water usage, potential discharge of pollutants, and the environmental impact of backup diesel generators. Legislators indicated that the upcoming General Assembly session would focus on developing statewide regulations for data centers, including new water usage reporting requirements.
Virginia state legislators May Nivar (D-57th District) and Schuyler VanValkenburg (D-16th District) engaged with constituents during a town hall at Twin Hickory Library in Henrico County, addressing pressing concerns regarding data center expansion and statewide regulation. Both legislators confirmed that the upcoming General Assembly session would heavily prioritize defining Virginia's role in overseeing data centers, particularly given growing community sentiment against their unchecked development.
Residents voiced significant apprehension about data centers' environmental impact, specifically highlighting their considerable water consumption and the potential discharge of heavy metals, biocides, and PFAS chemicals into municipal water systems. Delegate Nivar announced that new legislation, effective January 1, 2027, would mandate water providers to report data center water use as a distinct category, enhancing transparency. Additionally, concerns were raised about the air pollution from diesel-powered backup generators, which operate during peak energy demand, prompting discussions about diversifying the energy supply with cleaner sources like solar.
Senator VanValkenburg emphasized the need for the General Assembly to establish a clear statewide regulatory framework for data centers, moving beyond previous budget-related disputes. While acknowledging the varied local needs, Delegate Nivar underscored her commitment to listening to community perspectives, particularly in areas like eastern Goochland where opposition to data centers is strong. The discussion underscored a shift in legislative focus towards comprehensive state-level oversight to address both environmental and infrastructural challenges posed by data center growth.