Microsoft Faces Record Fine Over Data Center Emissions Violations

Microsoft has agreed to pay a record $2.5 million penalty for violating an emissions permit at one of its data centers in Leesburg, Virginia. The company's facility was found to have exceeded allowed emissions levels last year.

The data center is located along Compass Creek Parkway in Leesburg and was under construction as recently as April 2026, according to a Times-Mirror photo. Microsoft will pay the fine for violating its permit, which regulates emissions from its data centers.

This is not the first time Microsoft has faced criticism over its environmental record. The company has faced scrutiny for its carbon footprint and efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.