Virginia DEQ Report Blocks Industrial Water for Data Centers

The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality released a report concluding that the Potomac Aquifer is unable to support new industrial water withdrawals. This finding effectively blocks the development of water-cooled data centers in eastern Virginia, as these facilities rely heavily on local water resources for cooling.

The report was mandated by 2024 legislation but was delayed six months past its January 1 deadline. It was only released after an Associated Press open records request. The administration of Governor Abigail Spanberger attributed the delay to a backlog of items inherited from the previous administration under Governor Glen Youngkin.

The delayed release has triggered political backlash among state legislators, who argue the findings should have influenced General Assembly legislation on water resource protection. State Senators Russet Perry and Richard Linklater have called for a special session to establish policies limiting aquifer water use. Additionally, Senator Glen Sturtevant requested a pause on the approval of new data center projects.