CNBC: Maine to become the first state in the U.S. to ban data center construction

BlockBeats News, April 9th, according to CNBC, Maine is set to become the first state in the U.S. to ban data center construction statewide, a move that could pave the way for other states to take similar actions and put the "brakes" on this fast-growing industry.

This week, Maine lawmakers approved a bill text that would prohibit the construction of data centers in the state until November 2027. The measure is expected to receive final approval in the coming days, while establishing a committee to propose a possible regulatory framework for data centers to ensure they do not lead to energy price hikes or other issues for Maine residents.

Despite receiving bipartisan support, the bill has faced strong opposition from tech groups and businesses, who fear that even a brief construction delay would set the state back. Glenn Adams, Director of Business Development at Sargent Corporation, stated that any halt to data center construction locally, even if temporary, would cause setbacks. The company, headquartered in Maine, is currently building data centers in Virginia and North Carolina.