Gov. Moore Signs Exec. Order Setting New Guardrails for Data Center Development
Image Courtesy of Office of Governor Wes Moore
MARYLAND – On Wednesday morning, Governor Wes Moore signed an executive order codifying a framework that outlines strict guardrails for transparent data center development in the State of Maryland.
The executive order creates one standard, one review process, and one public record for every large data center proposed in Maryland that covers 25 megawatts or more as soon as it seeks any State action. Additionally, the order also establishes the Maryland Data Center Task Force, responsible for reviewing every project and updating a new public Data Center Dashboard monthly. It will also coordinate with neighboring states and recommend further actions to the Governor to strengthen protections and enhance enforcement surrounding data center development.
“By signing this executive order, we are establishing clear safeguards to ensure Marylanders do not foot the bill, our people benefit, community voices are heard, and our environment is protected — all while centering transparency and accountability throughout the process,” Governor Moore said.
Additionally, Moore announced his support and commitment to work directly with the General Assembly in the upcoming legislative session to repeal the Data Center Sales and Use Tax Exemption, originally enacted in 2020.
Republican leaders pushed back on Moore’s executive order, with the Maryland Freedom Caucus calling the measure “political theater,” and saying it does little to slow the development of data centers.
“Read the order, and the picture changes: no moratorium, no new power to stop construction, and a process to help favored projects move forward,” the Caucus said in a statement released Wednesday afternoon. “This past Session, Delegate Mark Fisher offered an actual moratorium and House Democrats voted it down.”
Energy companies based in Maryland also responded to Wednesday’s Executive Order, with Exelon corporations applauding the Governor’s decision.
“Large new energy users should pay for the infrastructure needed to serve them, rather than shifting those costs to families and existing businesses,” a joint-statement issued by BGE, Delmarva Power and Pepco read, in part. “Exelon has already secured more than $1 billion in customer protections through Transmission Security Agreements across our utilities… We look forward to continuing to work with the Governor, General Assembly and regulators to protect customers while supporting responsible growth.”
To read the executive order in full, click here.
