Isle of Wight County proposes data center ordinance
Isle of Wight County is drafting a new zoning ordinance to regulate data centers, prompted by developer inquiries and the industry's expansion across Virginia. The proposed changes aim to restrict data center locations, impose strict design and environmental requirements, and address concerns over electricity and water usage. This move follows similar actions by other Virginia localities considering or enacting stricter controls on data center development.
Isle of Wight County's Planning Commission is reviewing proposed changes to its zoning ordinance to regulate data centers, anticipating a proliferation of these facilities in the area. The draft ordinance, modeled after those in York County, Chesapeake, and Fairfax County, defines data centers and restricts their placement to designated "Development Service Districts" and within one mile of high-voltage transmission lines.
Community Development Director Amy Ring noted that while no formal applications have been received, developers have made inquiries, signaling interest. The ordinance would require applicants to submit detailed illustrations, environmental and historical impact analyses, emergency response plans, and certifications from electric utilities regarding grid reliability and capacity. It also addresses significant concerns about electricity and water consumption, citing a JLARC report warning of potential statewide electricity demand doubling by 2040 due to data centers. Noise is also addressed, with the ordinance setting maximum decibel levels and requiring post-construction sound studies. Furthermore, it mandates specific setbacks for facilities and equipment, along with design requirements for facades and landscaping.
The county's initiative comes as other Virginia localities are also taking action; Chesapeake's City Council paused data center applications, Suffolk's City Council is drafting a prohibition, Loudoun County is developing moratorium ordinances, and Front Royal's Town Council directed staff to draft a prohibition and temporary moratorium. Virginia Beach's City Council unanimously rejected future large "hyperscale" data centers. Meanwhile, the state budget maintains a sales tax exemption for data centers but introduced a new electricity consumption tax. The article also mentions specific projects by AVAIO Digital in Prince Edward County and Green Energy Partners in Surry County, highlighting the significant investments and potential economic impacts associated with data center development.