Residents of Virginia Affected by Data Center Noise

In Virginia, some residents are grappling with persistent noise issues stemming from local data centers. Reports indicate that certain individuals are going to great lengths—like barricading their windows with mattresses and plexiglass—to minimize the disturbance.

Residents in Sterling have expressed their discontent over the Vantage data center, which has been described as a noisy nuisance. A video shared by NewsNation captures the disruptive growling sound, which has prompted at least one neighbor to employ a mattress for soundproofing. Another resident showcased how to utilize plexiglass to measure the noise levels. Many locals are voicing concerns regarding property values and overall quality of life.

“It’s just unbelievable,” stated resident Hari Due, who claimed that neighbors were first led to believe the data center was merely conducting emergency generator tests. Yet, she noted, the noise has been continuous since its activation more than a year ago.

Another resident, Greg Pillio, shared his frustrations, saying, “Hearing this sound makes you want to scream. It’s unbearable.” He mentioned that he has even consulted with a lawyer about the situation.

On their part, Vantage data center officials maintain that they are monitoring the noise and do not believe it surpasses the county’s established sound limits. According to Loudoun County regulations, noise in residential areas should remain below 55 decibels and below 60 decibels in mixed-use zones. However, exceptions exist for sounds generated during emergencies or equipment testing.

Due noted that residents are advocating for the data center’s relocation away from residential neighborhoods, urging local authorities to act against placing such facilities within a 10 to 15-mile radius of homes.

Virginia is home to the highest concentration of operational and upcoming data centers in the United States, with 287 and 398 sites, respectively. As noted by the Pew Research Center, these centers can significantly boost local tax revenue. Loudoun County reported that data centers contribute nearly half of its property tax revenue, which can be redirected to schools and services.

However, there are downsides; according to Pew, states could face a 26% reduction in power in 2023 due to the growing presence of these centers. Additionally, they are reportedly driving up energy costs.

Interestingly, Vantage data centers operate their own power plants and are not connected to the traditional power grid.

The growing complaints about noise coincide with the rapid expansion of data centers nationwide. Federal regulators are now working to facilitate quicker connections for these facilities to the U.S. power grid. A recent action by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) requires major power grid providers to clarify existing rules concerning “large energy users,” such as data centers, within 60 days.