As Google data center looms, water authority is ‘very comfortable’ with supply
The Western Virginia Water Authority has concluded a monthslong study, asserting its capability to meet the water demands of Google's forthcoming data center in Botetourt County. The authority's director of public relations, Sarah Baumgardner, stated they are "very comfortable" with the region's future water supply, even considering potential drought conditions.
The Western Virginia Water Authority (WVWA) has announced the findings of its extensive water supply study, indicating that the region, including Botetourt County, is well-equipped to handle the future water demands, specifically those of a looming Google data center project.
Sarah Baumgardner, WVWA's director of public relations, stated at an open house that the authority is "very comfortable" with the current and projected water supply. The study, which spanned several months, aims to outline the Roanoke Valley's water needs and supply plans for the coming decades, addressing concerns related to large-scale consumers like data centers, even amidst potential drought conditions such as those experienced at Carvins Cove Reservoir in July 2026.