Virginia Data Centers Resources

Resources on Virginia & U.S. Data Centers

Image source: VPM News Focal Point

Data maintenance is integral to most industries, including higher education. While opportunities abound as investments reach an all-time high, the water and energy use of “the Cloud” is staggering. Greening data centers remains a persistent challenge, especially in places such as northern Virginia, known as Data Center Alley, with dozens of data centers across a few counties. Virginia became a hotspot for rapid expansion due to the location close to Washington DC and state tax incentives. Efficiency standards and other policy guidance were not codified to ensure sustainability.

This compilation of sources addressing the geographies of data centers with a focus on the Commonwealth of Virginia was created for students to engage in real-time problem-solving for sustainability improvements in data use and management. We encourage students to think outside the box.

• Resources originally compiled by Dr. Mary Finley-Brook, University of Richmond.
• Last updated: April 25, 2024