It’s a first in the United States. The state of Maine has reached a milestone by adopting a moratorium on the construction of large data centers, amidst growing concerns about electricity consumption and the environmental footprint of AI-related infrastructure. The legislation, approved by both chambers, still needs to be signed into law by Democratic Governor Janet Mills.
The measure calls for a suspension, until the fall of 2027, of permits for any data center project exceeding 20 megawatts of electrical capacity. This threshold directly targets large-scale installations deployed by technology groups to support the rapid development of AI. Additionally, the law establishes a council to assess the impact of these infrastructures on the electrical grid, the environment, and individual bills.
Expenses increased tenfold in two years
This decision comes as investments in data centers are booming in the United States. According to ConstructConnect, construction spending has multiplied by over ten in two years, with projections exceeding $60 billion by 2025, compared to less than $7 billion in 2023.
Maine among territories with highest residential rates
Maine is among the territories where residential rates have increased the most in recent years, according to the US Energy Information Agency (EIA). By the end of 2025, two data center projects had already been rejected in the state, with officials accusing promoters of underestimating water and electricity consumption.
Eleven states consider similar proposals
Although Janet Mills expressed support for the moratorium, she had requested an exemption for a project to convert an old paper mill, representing around $550 million in investment. This request was ultimately rejected by lawmakers.
Beyond Maine, this vote sends a political signal at the national level. Eleven other states are currently considering similar proposals, highlighting the resistance to infrastructure projects led by big tech companies. The governor now has ten days to sign the law, veto it, or let it take effect without a signature.
