Maryland Governor Wes Moore is putting new rules in place for large data centers across the state.
Moore signed an executive order Wednesday creating a state task force to review proposed data centers that use at least 25 megawatts of power when they seek state permits, incentives or other support.
Projects will be evaluated on five areas, including protecting electricity ratepayers and the power grid, economic benefits, community input, environmental protections, and transparency.
The task force will issue a public determination on each project, and a new online dashboard will track proposed data centers, including their expected electricity and water use.
Moore also says he’ll work with lawmakers next year to repeal Maryland’s data center sales and use tax exemption. Local governments will still have the final say on whether projects are approved.
By: Dianah Gibson
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