Story perspectives

Moore Creates Task Force for 25+ Megawatt Data Centers

By Drooid · Sep 25, 2026, 2:44 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Governor Wes Moore signed an order creating a state task force to review large data center projects.
The order requires a single review process and public dashboard for data centers using 25 megawatts or more.
Projects will be judged on five principles: ratepayer protection, economic benefits, community voice, environmental safeguards, transparency.
Moore will seek General Assembly repeal of the 2020 Data Center Sales and Use Tax Exemption.

History

Historical Context

In 2015, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo signed the Data Center Tax Incentive Act, offering $500 million in tax breaks for facilities exceeding 20 MW. The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance reported that the program attracted twelve data centers, creating 1,800 jobs and $250 million in local spending. Maryland Governor Wes Moore’s 2024 executive order mirrors that approach, establishing a task force, a public dashboard, and targeting projects over 25 MW. By revisiting tax exemptions and enforcing transparent reviews, Maryland aims to balance economic incentives with ratepayer protection, echoing New York’s mixed outcomes for the state.

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Story summary

Governor Wes Moore signed an order creating a state task force to review large data center projects.
The order requires a single review process and public dashboard for data centers using 25 megawatts or more.
Projects will be judged on five principles: ratepayer protection, economic benefits, community voice, environmental safeguards, transparency.
Moore will seek General Assembly repeal of the 2020 Data Center Sales and Use Tax Exemption.

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