Advancing a reclaimed water supply for data centers in Virginia

Image courtesy of Stafford County, Virginia

Located just south of Northern Virginia's "Data Center Alley," Stafford County is supporting the next wave of digital infrastructure growth through an innovative water reuse collaboration. With the support of Jacobs as owner's engineer, the county is developing a reclaimed water system that will provide up to 6 million gallons per day (peak daily flow) of recycled water to new data center campuses, reducing reliance on potable water supplies while supporting one of the region's fastest-growing industries. Supplying advanced-treated wastewater from the county's Aquia Wastewater Treatment Facility, the system will include advanced filtration, enhanced UV disinfection, approximately 10 miles of purple pipe distribution infrastructure and up to 6 million gallons of public-side storage capacity. The recycled water will be treated to Virginia’s highest quality standard (Level 1). 

What makes the project particularly notable is its collaborative model. The nearly $500 million initiative is being fully funded by private developers, with Stafford County retaining ownership and operational control of the infrastructure once construction is complete. The approach allows the utility to expand critical infrastructure, support economic growth and protect residential water supplies without placing additional capital costs on ratepayers. The project demonstrates how utility-industrial collaboration is becoming increasingly important as communities face rising water demands from emerging industries. Located between the Potomac and Rappahannock rivers, Stafford County is traditionally considered "water-rich," yet projected data center growth made clear that conventional water supply strategies alone would not be sufficient. The water reuse system infrastructure and rate structure are being developed separately from the drinking water and sanitary sewer systems. By viewing treated wastewater as a valuable resource rather than a discharge stream, the county is creating a resilient, fit-for-purpose water supply that supports both community and industry needs.