Maryland leaders consider statewide moratorium on new data centers

Maryland has been a leader in regulating data centers, including implementing large load tariffs and a voluntary clean capacity rating program, WYPR reported. On Saturday, state and local leaders met to discuss further regulatory measures, with a statewide moratorium on new data centers expected to be proposed next year.

According to the Chesapeake Climate Action Network (CCAN), which hosted the event, 90% of Marylanders live in areas with local pauses or bans on new data centers. While New York and Texas have issued executive orders halting new data center development, Maryland could become the first state to enact a legislative statewide moratorium.

Senator Mary Washington, representing Baltimore City and Baltimore County, and Senator C.T. Wilson from Charles County plan to introduce multi-year statewide moratorium bills when the General Assembly reconvenes in January, CCAN Executive Director Mike Tidwell said.

Governor Wes Moore has indicated support for a statewide moratorium if passed by the legislature. Maryland has already incentivized data centers to use clean energy through the Utility RELIEF Act, which offers priority grid interconnection for centers generating 80% to 100% of their peak demand from clean sources.

In addition, Governor Moore signed an executive order establishing the Maryland Data Center Accountability Task Force to review applications and ensure environmental and health protections are considered.