Data center protest held in Prince George's County as council considers 2-year moratorium
An anti-data center rally was held in Prince George's County, Maryland, where residents protested against new AI data centers, advocating for a permanent ban. Counter-protesters also attended, arguing for technological progress and potential county benefits. The county council is currently considering a two-year moratorium on data center construction, addressing concerns about water, electricity, and tax revenue.
Prince George's County, Maryland, is currently a focal point for the contentious debate surrounding data center development, with a rally held in the county drawing both opponents and proponents of the facilities. Residents advocating to 'keep Prince George's gorgeous' expressed strong opposition to AI data centers, calling for a permanent ban, while a group of counter-protesters in orange shirts and hats supported technological advancement and the potential long-term benefits for the county.
The county council is actively considering a two-year moratorium on data center construction, a move supported by Councilmember Wallach, who believes there are enough votes for its approval. This proposed pause comes as a previous moratorium recently expired, and concerns persist regarding the significant water and electricity demands of these facilities, as well as rising electricity costs.
The debate also encompasses the county's financial future, with council members seeking ways to replace tax revenue after several significant departures, including the Commanders football team, the FBI headquarters, and the shuttered Six Flags amusement park. The site of the old Landover Mall, once slated for a massive new data center, remains undeveloped due to the ongoing moratorium, with some residents preferring community-focused alternatives like worker co-ops or grocery stores.