Moore Signs Executive Order On Data Centers
Governor Moore signed an executive order to establish a framework for data center development in Maryland, creating a Data Center Task Force to ensure protection for ratepayers and the environment while empowering communities. The order also introduces a unified review process for large data centers and supports repealing the Data Center Sales and Use Tax Exemption.
Maryland Governor Wes Moore has signed an executive order to establish a comprehensive framework for data center development within the state. This order codifies strict guardrails to ensure transparent and accountable growth, aiming to protect ratepayers and the environment, empower local communities, and enforce transparency. A key component of this initiative is the creation of the Maryland Data Center Task Force, housed within the Governor's Office, which will review all proposed projects of 25 megawatts or more.
The Task Force will operate under five core principles: ratepayer and grid protection, economic benefits for Marylanders, community voice, environmental protections, and transparency and accountability. It will coordinate with neighboring states, publish rules, and maintain a public Data Center Dashboard detailing project locations, developers, power demand, water use, and state actions. Furthermore, Governor Moore announced his commitment to collaborate with the General Assembly in the upcoming legislative session to repeal the Data Center Sales and Use Tax Exemption, originally enacted in 2020. The Governor emphasized that these actions aim to put control in the hands of Marylanders against the backdrop of federal inaction regarding tech regulation.