Moore signs order setting new Maryland oversight, review standards for data centers

News ClipWBFF·Baltimore County, MD·9/23/2026

Maryland Governor Wes Moore signed an executive order establishing new oversight and review standards for data center projects over 25 megawatts across the state, citing concerns about transparency, environmental impacts, and electricity costs. The order also creates a state task force to review projects and track development. Concurrently, Baltimore County extended its data center development moratorium through 2027.

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Gov: Gov. Wes Moore, Maryland, Maryland Data Center Task Force, Maryland Energy Administration, Maryland Department of Commerce, Maryland Department of Labor, Maryland Department of Environment, Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Maryland Department of Agriculture, Maryland Department of Planning, Baltimore County

Maryland Governor Wes Moore signed an executive order on Wednesday to establish new guidelines for data center development in the state. The order applies to projects consuming 25 megawatts or more and introduces a standardized review process, state oversight, and a new Data Center Task Force.

The task force, comprising members from various state departments including Energy, Commerce, and Environment, will review all covered data center projects and maintain an online Data Center Dashboard to track development. Governor Moore stated the changes aim to ensure community benefits, environmental protection, and prevent Maryland residents from bearing excessive costs, while emphasizing transparency and accountability.

This executive action comes as Baltimore County announced it would extend its moratorium on data center development until the end of 2027. The extension provides county officials additional time to assess community concerns and develop potential regulations for these facilities.