Scarborough set to consider updated policies on data center developments

Name: Scarborough set to consider updated policies on data center developments
Uploaded: 2026-09-16T23:04:26.000Z
Duration: 34 s
Description: The town of Scarborough, Maine, is reviewing and updating its policies on data center developments. The Town Council will consider recommendations from its Sustainability Committee, which highlighted concerns about data centers' impact on the electrical grid and high water consumption.

News Clip0:34NEWS CENTER Maine·Scarborough, Cumberland County, ME·9/16/2026

The town of Scarborough, Maine, is reviewing and updating its policies on data center developments. The Town Council will consider recommendations from its Sustainability Committee, which highlighted concerns about data centers' impact on the electrical grid and high water consumption.

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Gov: Scarborough Town Council, Scarborough Sustainability Committee, Greater Portland Council of Governments

The town of Scarborough, Maine, is taking steps to update its policies regarding data center developments. Staff have been researching the potential impacts of these facilities on local resources and the environment, utilizing a guidebook provided by the Greater Portland Council of Governments.

Tonight, the Scarborough Town Council is scheduled to review recommendations put forth by the Scarborough Sustainability Committee. Members of this committee have expressed concerns that the drawbacks of data centers, such as strain on the electrical grid and high water consumption, outweigh their benefits. The council will deliberate on an updated ordinance during their meeting scheduled for 7 p.m. tonight.