Virginia Orders Data Centers to Pay for Dedicated New Electric Infrastructure

Virginia, home to the nation's densest data center concentration, now requires data centers to cover the cost of new dedicated power infrastructure, aiming to shield homeowners from rising electric bills. The State Corporation Commission ordered large data center users to pay for transmission infrastructure they exclusively use, potentially saving ratepayers hundreds of millions of dollars. Governor Abigail Spanberger supports the move, citing rising energy costs and community concerns. With over 570 data centers, including 'Data Center Alley,' the state faces growth controversies, while data center power demand is projected to double by 2027.