UMBC poll finds more than 75% of Maryland voters oppose new data centers
A UMBC poll found that more than 75% of Maryland voters oppose building new data centers in the state and their communities, citing concerns about energy costs and water quality. The findings come as Gov. Wes Moore establishes a standardized review process and task force for large data center projects, without imposing a statewide moratorium.
A University of Maryland, Baltimore County poll found that more than three-quarters of Maryland likely voters oppose new data center construction statewide and in their own communities. Respondents raised concerns about rising electricity costs, water quality and other potential environmental impacts.
The poll comes as Maryland Gov. Wes Moore implements an executive order requiring a standardized review process for data center projects using at least 25 megawatts of power. The order creates the Maryland Data Center Task Force and a public data center dashboard, while Moore has also voiced support for repealing the state's data center tax exemption.
The executive order does not establish a statewide ban or moratorium, although some Maryland counties have adopted such measures. The UMBC survey also found broad pessimism about Maryland's economy and the state's direction.