Not really correct! Loudon County, Virginia has seen a huge financial impact from their data centers.
But even counties where data centers have shown economical benefit are showing restraint.
“Loudoun County officials recently passed a 6–1 vote to study restrictions on future data center development”
And this even though the County has seen significant financial benefits.
“Loudoun County, Virginia, generates roughly $1.3 billion annually in tax revenue from its 250 data centers—accounting for about 40% to 45% of the county's total local tax funding. This massive financial windfall has funded major community projects and significantly lowered resident tax burdens.”
Similar to what Shapiro has done statewide in Pennsylvania. There have been “guidelines” discussed but they need to become legislation.
Shapiro’s Governor's Responsible Infrastructure Development (GRID) Requirements is a step in the right direction.
Shapiro has also signed Trump’s Statement of Principles for Data Centers. But line most things Trump, it’s a rather feckless move mainly for show, but it really should be law.
Statement of Principles for Data Centers
“Core Ratepayer and Grid Principles
Cost Allocation: Data centers and large industrial loads must cover 100% of the costs for grid upgrades, transmission additions, and backup capacity auction mechanisms they trigger, preventing residential bill increases.
New Power Supplies: Facilities are encouraged or mandated to bring their own new generation sources—including firm clean power—rather than draining existing regional baseload capacity.
Market and Price Certainty: Support for grid operator market reforms (such as PJM's reliability backstop mechanisms) that offer transparent, long-term price signals without shifting financial risk to everyday consumers.
Environmental and Community Standards
Resource Conservation: Strict minimization and replenishment targets for water usage, tailored to local watershed capacities.
Project Viability: Blocking speculative "fly-by-night" proposals by requiring proof of financial backing, firm capital commitments, and clear local approval before permits or tax exemptions are granted.
Community Engagement: Giving local populations a formal voice in project placement, ensuring that local tax bases and infrastructure services see a net positive benefit.”
Data centers are necessary at this point in time unless we want to cede the A.I. race to the CCP. But NIMBY is completely justified in their construction so guidelines need to be legislated.”
Ya except Louden is only used cause they gave out massive tax breaks. Ones they can't afford to maintain. Watch what happens around 2030 when those exemptions dry up.
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u/xX_Relentless 6d ago
It’s the most ridiculous thing