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VA SB130

VA SB130
Data centers; site assessment, definition of high energy use facility.


summary

Introduced
01/06/2026
In Committee
01/19/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2026 Regular Regular Session

Bill Summary

Siting of data centers; site assessment; high energy use facility. Provides that prior to any approval of a rezoning application, special exception application, or special use permit for the siting of a new high energy use facility (HEUF), as defined in the bill, a locality shall require that an applicant perform and submit a site assessment to examine the sound profile of the HEUF on residential units and schools located within 500 feet of the HEUF property boundary. The bill also allows a locality to require that a site assessment examine the effect of the proposed HEUF facility on (i) ground and surface water resources, (ii) agricultural resources, (iii) parks, (iv) registered historic sites, and (v) forestland on the HEUF site or immediately contiguous land. The provisions of the bill do not apply to a site with an existing legislative or administrative approval where an applicant is seeking an expansion or modification of an already existing or approved facility and such expansion does not exceed an additional 100 megawatts or more of electrical power. Finally, the bill provides that its provisions shall not be construed to prohibit, limit, or otherwise supersede existing local zoning authority. This bill was incorporated into SB 94.

AI Summary

This bill requires that before a local government approves a rezoning, special exception, or special use permit for a new "high energy use facility" (HEUF), defined as a facility expected to need 100 megawatts or more of electrical power, the applicant must submit a site assessment. This assessment must examine the noise impact of the HEUF on nearby homes and schools within 500 feet, and the local government can also require it to assess the facility's effect on water resources, agricultural land, parks, historic sites, and forestland on or near the site. Additionally, the electric utility serving the HEUF must provide information about substations and transmission voltage. These assessments will help the locality ensure the HEUF complies with its comprehensive plan, noise ordinances, and other regulations, but they do not affect the State Corporation Commission's authority or override existing local zoning powers. This requirement does not apply to expansions of existing facilities that do not increase their power needs by 100 megawatts or more.

Committee Categories

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

Sponsors (5)

Last Action

Incorporated by Finance and Appropriations (SB94-Roem) (13-Y 2-N) (on 02/03/2026)

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