AUGUSTA (WGME) – There are currently no large-scale AI data centers in Maine, but a proposed moratorium would put a pause on any plans to change that.
A bill sponsored by Representative Melanie Sachs includes a moratorium on centers which would require 20 megawatts or more of power. During the moratorium, a newly created council would study potential financial, environmental and community impacts from data centers.
There are currently no large-scale AI data centers in Maine, but a proposed moratorium would put a pause on any plans to change that. (WGME)
“These are not small entities. These are huge energy factors. We need to be really thoughtful about it. So a temporary pause to get it right felt like the right course of action for Maine,” Sachs said. “If communities are thinking about encouraging or hoping to have a data center in their community, that they are able to consider the factors that are needed around them.”
One town considering a center of its own is Sanford.
Senator Matt Harrington says this moratorium would put a halt to a project, which is already in its planning stages.
“These facilities are going to be built whether they are going to come to Maine or not. Historically, Maine has a long track record of missing the vote on economic opportunity, and we’re seeing it yet again with this moratorium,” Harrington said. “Maine is in desperate need for economic development. This would completely stifle that entire industry from moving into Maine, at a time when data center growth is massive.”
There are currently no large-scale AI data centers in Maine, but a proposed moratorium would put a pause on any plans to change that. (WGME)
Just a few months ago, the Lewiston City Council considered converting the former Bates Mill No. 3 into a large data center. The project would have cost about $300 million, generated about $800,000 in tax revenue and created up to 30 jobs.
But the council rejected the proposal because of widespread opposition from the public.
Lewiston Mayor Carl Sheline urges leaders in other cities and towns to be transparent with the public on future plans for data centers.
There are currently no large-scale AI data centers in Maine, but a proposed moratorium would put a pause on any plans to change that. (WGME)
“There was a complete lack of public support for this project, and I respect that,” Sheline said. “There was a lack of public engagement on this proposal. We will do much better next time.”
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A report from the council would be due by February 2027. The moratorium would last until the end of next year’s legislative session.