Without strong regulatory and legislative intervention, the risks and costs of the immense infrastructure supporting data centers is destined to be passed on to all ratepayers, including other businesses and residents.
PEC
2024 Highlights: By the Numbers
PEC’s dedicated staff work relentlessly to advance land conservation, sound land use planning, the protection of natural resources and better climate and energy policy.
General Assembly Snapshot: 2025
The General Assembly convenes on Jan. 8 for a planned “short session” that runs through Feb. 22. PEC has co-authored several white papers that form the framework of the Virginia Conservation Network’s legislative priorities.
2024 Photo Contest Winners
At PEC, we work to connect people to the landscapes and communities of Virginia’s Piedmont. The wonderful images that photographers submit to this contest help us tell important stories and allow folks to experience this beautiful place in exciting new ways
On The Ground Updates – December 2024
A series of short updates from around the PEC region – Albemarle & Charlottesville, Clarke, Culpeper, Fauquier, Greene, Loudoun, Madison, Orange & Rappahannock.
Commentary: Dominion, data centers are fleecing ratepayers
PEC President, Chris Miller, recently wrote an op-ed in the Richmond Times-Dispatch about the energy “crisis by contract” created by Dominion Energy and the data center industry.
Virginia Conservation Network’s Our 2025 Common Agenda Environmental Briefing Book
Our Common Agenda is your road map for state-based, pragmatic, policy solutions to address the environmental problems facing Virginia.
Program Details
Learn about program eligibility and application requirements.
Bryn Sonnett
Bryn is native to the Piedmont with roots in Rappahannock County. Growing up in the area solidified her love and appreciation for the outdoors early on and inspired her career in conservation.
Lea Justice
Lea Justice joined The Piedmont Environmental Council as Volunteer Coordinator in July, 2025 after first serving as Buy Fresh Buy Local Assistant since the fall of 2024.