Battles over data centers intensify in the Maryland State House and communities

Battles over data center development are intensifying across Maryland, with activists and state lawmakers pushing for stricter regulations amidst community concerns over environmental and infrastructural impacts. In Prince George’s County, Taylor Frazier McCollum started a petition with over 20,000 signatures against a proposed data center near the former Landover Mall site, citing worries about noise, light, and pollution. Concurrently, the Maryland General Assembly debated at least 17 data center-related bills, ultimately passing two, including the Utility RELIEF Act. Introduced by House Speaker Joseline Peña-Melnyk and supported by Governor Wes Moore, this legislation aims to hold utilities and data centers accountable for grid upgrades, expand clean energy, and define "large load customers" subject to stricter regulations. Governor Moore stated that data centers must pay for their own grid upgrades and support local workers. In Frederick County, community activist Elizabeth Bauer and the group Envision organized a petition with over 20,000 signatures to force a public vote on a county ordinance that allows data centers on rural legacy and preservation land. Bauer anticipates a legal battle with Frederick County over the referendum. Meanwhile, Kelly Schulz, CEO of the Maryland Tech Council, advocates for data centers, highlighting economic benefits like job creation and tax revenue, citing an estimated $200 million annually in tax revenues from one Frederick County project. Activists like Frazier McCollum are also pushing for a statewide moratorium or ban on data centers, vowing to use voting power to support politicians who align with their cause.