Data Centers Drain Power, Pollute Air

Data centers, powering everything from internet searches to AI, are becoming critical digital infrastructure. Their electricity demand is soaring, with U.S. data centers expected to consume 12% of the nation's power by 2028. Virginia, hosting the most data centers, saw them consume 26% of its total electricity supply in 2023.

This massive energy consumption has significant environmental impacts. Power generation for data centers contributes to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Water is extensively used for cooling, straining local supplies. The constant operation of servers and generators also produces persistent noise.

Furthermore, data center expansion encroaches on natural lands, and increased electricity demand is projected to raise residential energy bills by $14 to $37 per month by 2040 in Virginia. Addressing these issues requires increased renewable energy use, water conservation, and fair cost allocation for grid infrastructure.

Mitigation strategies include greater reliance on renewable energy sources like solar and wind. Innovations in water recycling for cooling systems and reengineering fan mounts to reduce noise are also effective. Requiring data centers to bear more of the grid costs they create can protect consumers from escalating electricity expenses.