Maine set to become first state with data center ban
Erik Isakson | Digitalvision | Getty Images Maine is poised to implement the first statewide ban on data center construction, a move that could clear the way for other states to adopt similar measures and pump the brakes on a growing industry. Lawmakers in Maine greenlit the text of a bill this week to block data centers from being built in the state until November 2027. The measure, which is expected to get final passage in the next few days, also creates a council to suggest potential guardrails for data centers to ensure they don’t lead to higher energy prices or other complications for Maine residents. While the bill has garnered bipartisan support, it’s faced fierce opposition from tech groups and businesses worried that even a short delay in construction would set the state back. Glenn Adams, business development director for Sargent Corporation said anywhere that puts a pause on data centers, even a temporary one, will fall behind. The Maine-based building company is constructing data centers in Virginia and North Carolina. “Things are going …

