Cardinal Conversation: Proposed data center in Wise County aims to minimize water consumption

RADIO IQ | By Fred Echols

Published March 9, 2026 at 4:53 AM EDT

Early stage planning is underway for a potential two-million-square-foot data center in Wise County.

The proposed project would include a power plant and new technology to minimize water consumption.

Cardinal News business reporter Matt Busse is covering the story and talked with Fred Echols.

Cardinal News is a non-profit independent online news organization covering Southside and Southwest Virginia.