Understanding Data Centers in Virginia

“New year, new you” is the common refrain for transformation during this season. It’s a new year in Virginia and data centers are driving its transformation.

Announcements about their development are in the news almost daily. Expanding use of artificial intelligence means that data center development must increase exponentially and their construction has spread to every corner of the commonwealth. The resource consumption of these data centers will impact everyone. The Piedmont Environmental Council is leading efforts to ensure all Virginians have the information required to understand how these facilities will impact their local communities and our state. Join us to learn more about this pressing issue in advance of the upcoming session of the Virginia General Assembly.

Attendees may participate in-person at PEC’s headquarters in Warrenton or virtually. Participation in the workshop is free, and in-person attendees may reserve a box lunch for $20. In-person attendance is limited to the first 50 registrants — reserve your spot below.

Workshop agenda:  

Chris Miller, President of Piedmont Environmental Council and John McCarthy, Senior Advisor and Director of Strategic Partnerships, PEC will discuss data center development, energy demand, and the consequences for Virginia. They’ll also provide an overview of associated legislation expected in the upcoming General Assembly session.

Ashish Kapoor, Senior Energy & Climate Advisor, PEC will give a presentation on PEC’s agrivoltaics program, where solar energy & sustainable agriculture meet. 

The Clifton Institute will share information on The Virginia Native Seed Pilot Project, an initiative working to create a network of farmers that can collectively serve as a commercial source of Virginia-ecotype native seeds for large scale revegetation and restoration projects. 

Amy Walker, Chatham Garden Club member, will share how she and other concerned citizens successfully advocated against a proposed data center, gaining support from the community and local government officials.

Lunch and discussion will follow the presentations. An optional boxed lunch is available for $20.

About our hosts:

The Clifton Institute is a 501(c)(3) headquartered in Warrenton, Va., whose mission is to inspire a deeper understanding and appreciation of nature, to study the ecology of our region, to restore habitat, and to conserve native biodiversity. 

Piedmont Environmental Council was founded in 1972 and has a mission to protect and restore the lands and waters of the Virginia Piedmont, while building stronger, more sustainable communities. 

FAQs

Is there parking on-site? Yes — parking information will be sent before the event.

Is the session being recorded? No. Please sign up to attend virtually if you are unable to travel to attend in-person.

Is the event exclusive to GCV members? Event information is being distributed only to GCV members, but members are permitted to register and bring non-member guests.

Are there lunch options? No, all boxed lunches will be gluten-free. If you have other dietary restrictions, please contact Diane Thomas (dianedthomas@me.com), GCV Conservation and Beautification Committee Chairman, to see if they can be accommodated.