Maine will likely become the first state to ban new data centers. (WSJ)
The bill is expected to pass soon in the state Senate, and Gov. Janet Mills said she backs it. It would freeze >20-MW data center projects until November 2027, giving the state time to gauge grid and environmental impacts. Officials around the US are watching closely—at least 10 other states are considering similar policies.
Also on the governor’s desk: Maine recently became the third state to pass plug-in solar legislation, following the trail blazed by Utah and Virginia. Like the first two’ bills, any retail electricity customer in Maine can install a plug-in PV or battery system up to 1.2 kW without an interconnection agreement or utility fees (as long as devices meet safety standards).Â