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Virginia Tech is establishing a research center to address the challenges associated with the rapid growth of data centers in Southwest Virginia, including significant facilities from Google and other companies. The initiative aims to explore the economic benefits and environmental concerns, particularly regarding increased energy and water consumption, which currently accounts for 25% of the state's electricity usage. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, Virginia Tech seeks to develop strategies for sustainable power generation and water management to support the region's continued growth in AI and data center technology.