Michigan data center development trails other Great Lakes states
Michigan is behind its neighboring Great Lakes states in developing data centers, according to Cooper Center expert.
The Detroit News
Energy
Virginia’s solar trends have changed: Approvals are up, denials are down.
In 2024, Virginia localities rejected more megawatts than they approved. A Cooper Center database shows that in 2025, that trend has reversed.
Cardinal News
Tech Giants Rush to Solar Amid Data Center Grid Strain
Companies are investing billions in solar power projects as traditional grid capacity proves insufficient for massive data center energy demands.
Data Center Knowledge
Spanberger inherits a data center boom. What will she do about it?
Cooper Center experts help explain how Virginia’s energy grid is under pressure as data centers multiply.
Technical.ly
Construction Materials and Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Construction materials generate nearly one-third of global carbon emissions, yet conventional accounting captures only a fraction of this impact.
AI Data Centers Require Massive Amounts of Power
According to the Cooper Center, energy demands in Virginia are likely to double due to data center demands.
Fast Company
Interest in Southwest Virginia grows among solar developers
Thirteen commercial solar developments have been approved in far Southwest Virginia since 2020, according to a state database.
Cardinal News
Shaping the Future of Solar
This report lays out observational case studies of notable examples of public engagement related to solar policy in Virginia.
UVa’s Cooper Center partners with state department to bolster solar adoption in localities
Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service has partnered with the state’s Department of Mines, Minerals, and Energy (DMME) to host an advisory program, SolSmart, aimed to help local governments implement and embrace solar energy.
Cville Tomorrow
New database reveals extent of solar push in Southside
The database, from the University of Virginia’s Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service, also shows a drop in local approvals of solar projects.
Cardinal News