Virginia and Maryland Communities Push Back on Expanding Data Centers

In northern Virginia’s Loudoun County, residents voiced strong opposition at a town‑hall meeting to Dominion Energy’s plan for new high‑voltage transmission lines that would serve expanding data centers. Homeowners fear the structures could be as tall as the Statue of Liberty and worry that the rapid growth of data‑center campuses threatens neighborhood character and strains the electric grid. The county board is considering an alternate routing of the lines onto school property before a state deadline on July 20.

Meanwhile, in Prince George’s County, Maryland, anti‑data‑center demonstrators gathered outside the county council chambers ahead of a vote on a proposed two‑year moratorium on new AI data‑center permits. Protesters cited concerns over high electricity and water consumption, potential blackouts during heatwaves, and insufficient local benefits. Council member Wala Blegay said the measure has strong support, while opponents argued the temporary halt is inadequate, urging a permanent ban.