Committee approves Phase 2 study of data‑center standards; scope to address noise, on‑site power and substations

The Transportation and Land Use Committee on July 28 recommended that the Board of Supervisors approve a project plan (CPAM 2025‑51 / ZOAM 2025‑51) to study Phase 2 updates to Loudoun's data‑center policies and zoning standards. The committee voted 4–0 (1 absent) to advance the plan.

Staff presentation and scope: Abdul Jaffrey, project manager in Planning and Zoning, described Phase 2 as a joint comprehensive‑plan amendment and zoning‑ordinance amendment process focused on compatibility through the special‑exception review process. "Phase 2 is focused on supporting staff and the board in evaluating data center applications by addressing compatibility concerns through the special exception process," Jaffrey said. The scope includes noise (including tonal noise), on‑site power generation and energy storage, use‑specific standards for data centers and substations, district energy opportunities and housekeeping amendments to align the 2019 General Plan with Phase‑1 changes.

Public comment and technical concerns: During the public input period, Loudoun residents and an…