Data centers injected into MD election with Wes Moore executive order
Maryland Governor Wes Moore signed an executive order establishing a task force and a transparent review process for data center projects over 25 megawatts. The order aims to protect ratepayers, the environment, and communities through strict guardrails and a public dashboard. The Maryland Freedom Caucus criticized the executive order for not including a moratorium on data center construction.
Maryland Governor Wes Moore has signed an executive order aimed at creating a transparent and accountable framework for data center development across the state. The order establishes the Maryland Data Center Task Force, housed in the Governor’s Office, which will oversee a new standardized review process and maintain a public Data Center Dashboard for projects exceeding 25 megawatts.
The task force will include representatives from various state departments, including Energy, Commerce, Labor, Environment, Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Planning. Projects will be evaluated based on specific principles and receive a public determination of “Aligned,” “Conditionally Aligned,” or “Not Aligned.” The public dashboard will provide details on project location, developers, power and water usage, and state actions requested.
Governor Moore emphasized that the executive order is a response to federal inaction on environmental and regulatory issues, stating it will "put control in the hands of Marylanders" and ensure environmental protection and community benefits. Additionally, Moore announced his commitment to working with the General Assembly to repeal the Data Center Sales and Use Tax Exemption, which was enacted in 2020.
The executive order immediately drew criticism from Republican lawmakers, particularly the Maryland Freedom Caucus. They argued that the order lacks a crucial element: a moratorium on data center construction. Del. Mark Fisher (R-27C) had previously proposed an actual moratorium during a past legislative session, which House Democrats voted down, leading to accusations that Moore’s order is merely a political maneuver without substantive action.