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Virginia Tech aims to establish a research center focused on the challenges posed by data centers in Southwest Virginia. The region has seen significant data center development, including a Google facility in Botetourt County and projects from Mesh Capital LLC and Solis Arx.

Concerns among residents include potential increases in electric and water bills due to the high power and water consumption of these facilities, which currently account for 25% of the state's electricity usage. Virginia Tech's workshop brought together experts to discuss the economic benefits and environmental challenges of data centers.

The workshop emphasized the need for enhanced power generation and water management strategies to support continued growth. Virginia Tech plans to form interdisciplinary teams to tackle these issues and position Virginia as a leader in AI and data center technology.