When you cross into Loudoun County, Virginia, one of the first things you notice is the hum - that's the sound of 199 data centres whirring in the background.
Few people have heard of this inconspicuous part of northern Virginia, which also happens to be the wealthiest county in America. But Loudon was on everyone's radar earlier this week, when a massive global Amazon outage downed everything from crucial banking services to fun Snapchat streaks for millions.
That's because the county is home to the world's largest swath of data storage and processing facilities - even outpacing China.
Data centres - dedicated spaces for computer systems that help power the internet and artificial intelligence - are essential to our global connectivity. However, they have proven to be a lucrative business, contributing billions to the local economy, while some residents worry the cost comes at too high a price.
There are some 200 facilities taking up about 45 million square metres in Loudoun, earning the county the nickname Data Center Alley. Data centres occupy 3% of the total land area of the county and 40% of its budget, with more facilities on the way.
Emily Kasabian found herself affected when a proposed data centre sign appeared near her home, which she thought was free from such developments. Residents like Kasabian and Greg Pirio express concerns not just about the structures but their environmental impact, especially on wildlife and noise pollution.
Moreover, rising electricity bills are a significant worry for many locals, with prices near data centres increasing by as much as 267% over the past five years. Despite widespread local opposition, advocates emphasize the role of data centres in supporting job creation, AI growth, and economic contributions.
As Loudoun County navigates the balance between economic growth and preserving quality of life, residents remain vigilant, urging for better regulations and consideration for the implications of rapid development.
