Temporary moratorium on data centers heads to the Governor’s desk

The Maine legislature has voted to pass a bill that would enact a temporary moratorium on data centers, positioning Maine as the first state in the country to implement such a measure. The bill, which has now advanced to Governor Janet Mills' desk, also includes a provision requiring the Department of Energy Resources to establish the Maine Data Center Coordination Council. This council would be tasked with ensuring the state's readiness for such facilities. Notably, Governor Mills had previously expressed support for an exemption to this law specifically for the Jay Paper Mill, citing its reuse of existing industrial infrastructure and the potential for economic benefits, including jobs and tax revenue. However, the version of the proposal that passed the legislature did not incorporate this exemption. It remains uncertain whether Governor Mills will sign the bill in its current form.