Virginia's First Wind Farm Powers Google Data Centers

Virginia just broke ground on something the state has never seen before: its own land-based wind farm that's already changing the economic landscape for one rural county.

The Rocky Forge Wind Project is rising along North Mountain's ridge line in Botetourt County, marking a historic milestone for Virginia's clean energy future. Developed by Apex Clean Energy, the wind farm will generate between 75 and 79.3 megawatts of power when it begins operations later this year.

That's enough electricity to power roughly 21,000 homes annually. But instead of feeding into the general grid, every watt will go directly to Google's data centers under a long-term power purchase agreement.

The project represents more than just clean energy for the tech giant. During construction, the wind farm is creating up to 250 full-time jobs, with seven permanent positions staying on after the turbines start spinning.

Local governments are celebrating too. The project will generate between $20 million and $30 million in state and local tax revenue over its lifetime, plus additional income for landowners who lease their property for the turbines.

The Ripple Effect

This single project is helping Virginia meet ambitious climate goals set by the Virginia Clean Economy Act, which requires the state's utilities to reach 100% carbon-free electricity between 2045 and 2050. Rocky Forge Wind shows that rural communities can lead the way in renewable energy while strengthening their local economies.

The site was carefully chosen for its strong wind resources and existing access to high-voltage transmission lines, making it efficient to connect clean power to where it's needed. The GE turbines will tap into nature's power without requiring new infrastructure buildouts.

While some residents worry about future expansion, the project followed Virginia's rigorous Permit by Rule process, which included environmental reviews and public participation opportunities. The documentation remains available online for community members who want to stay informed.

Apex Clean Energy expects the wind farm to reach full commercial operation before 2026 ends, marking Virginia's entry into land-based wind energy and proving that rural landscapes can be economic powerhouses for the clean energy transition.