UMBC Poll finds widespread opposition to new data centers in Maryland
A UMBC poll found that 78% of likely Maryland voters oppose new data centers statewide, while 77% oppose a facility near their community. Respondents expressed particular concern about electricity costs, water quality and quality-of-life impacts, as Maryland implements a new state framework for large data-center projects.
A University of Maryland, Baltimore County poll found broad opposition to new data centers in Maryland. Seventy-eight percent of likely voters opposed additional facilities statewide and 77% opposed a project near their own community. Voters most frequently cited concerns about higher household electricity costs, impacts on nearby residents, water quality and air quality.
The findings come after Gov. Wes Moore signed an executive order establishing a statewide review framework for data-center projects of at least 25 megawatts that require state action. The Maryland Data Center Accountability Task Force will evaluate projects based on grid and ratepayer protection, economic benefits, community input, environmental safeguards and transparency. The administration also plans to publish a dashboard detailing proposed projects and their power and water demands, while Moore has said he will work with lawmakers to repeal Maryland's data-center sales and use tax exemption.