Air testing begins in ‘data center alley' in Loudoun County | NBC4 Washington

Virginia's Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has launched an air monitoring project in Loudoun County, known for having the world's highest concentration of data centers. For years, residents have raised concerns about the air quality impacts from diesel-powered backup generators, which are tested monthly and sometimes more frequently, emitting dark exhaust. Resident Greg, who lives near a data center, reported throat and lung irritation on days when the diesel generators operate. The DEQ has deployed air quality sensors in seven locations within the 'data center alley' and plans to move them at least twice more to sample other areas, including Prince William County, which also has a high concentration of data centers. Loudoun County supervisors and staff are now learning about the DEQ's initiative. Supervisor Mike Turner welcomes the effort, acknowledging that with over 250 data centers in a 30-square-mile area, there's a strong circumstantial suspicion of air quality impact, the extent of which needs to be quantified by data. The DEQ recently began publishing initial results, reporting levels of particulate matter, nitrogen oxide, and carbon monoxide. The DEQ has been contacted for their interpretation of the data. Board member Turner emphasized the need for factual data to have an intelligent conversation about data centers and power, stating that the findings from this monitoring could help shape future county decisions and influence data center operations.