Mystery Chemicals: Why Virginia Regulators Can’t Track Data Center Water Runoff

By Billy Briefman · June 1, 2026 · 2 min read read

What’s in the Water? What We Know and Don’t Know About Data Center Water Discharge in VA State officials and environmental advocates remain uncertain about the chemical makeup of water discharged...

What’s in the Water? What We Know and Don’t Know About Data Center Water Discharge in VA

State officials and environmental advocates remain uncertain about the chemical makeup of water discharged from Virginia data centers as the industry expands across the Commonwealth, raising concerns about potential impacts on local watersheds.

Originally reported by Virginia Mercury. Virginia Mercury

Data Gaps in Cooling System Effluent

According to reporting from the Virginia Mercury, current regulatory frameworks do not always require data center operators to disclose the full list of additives used in cooling processes. These facilities often utilize chemical treatments to prevent mineral buildup and biological growth within cooling towers. When facilities flush these systems, the resulting discharge—known as "blowdown"—enters municipal sewer systems or local waterways.

The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) manages discharge permits, yet the specific concentrations of anti-corrosive agents and biocides often remain outside of standard reporting requirements. Environmental groups argue that without precise monitoring, the long-term effects on aquatic life and water quality remain unknown.

Impact on Municipal Infrastructure

Data centers frequently discharge wastewater into local utility systems, placing the burden of treatment on municipal plants. According to the Virginia Mercury, the high mineral content and chemical additives in data center effluent can complicate the treatment process for local jurisdictions. Some facilities use "closed-loop" systems to minimize water consumption, but even these systems eventually require the disposal of concentrated wastewater.

As VA maintains its position as a global hub for the data center industry, the volume of this discharge continues to grow. Advocates are calling for more transparent reporting and stricter state oversight to ensure that rapid industrial growth does not compromise water resources.

This article is based on reporting originally published by Virginia Mercury. Channel RVA provides this coverage with additional local context for the Richmond community.