Maine nearly became the first state to ban data centers
4/25/202612 min
Data centers make controversial neighbors: They’re loud, they use a lot of water, and can drive electricity prices up. Following public concern and organizing efforts, Maine nearly implemented an 18-month ban on data center construction, before a governor veto.
Joining Flora to talk about real changes communities can advocate for in regards to data centers are Pete McGuire, climate reporter at Maine Public, and Lauren Keeler, director of ASU’s Just Energy Transition Center.
Guests:
Pete McGuire is climate reporter at Maine Public.
Dr. Lauren Keeler is an associate professor and director of the Just Energy Transition Center at Arizona State University.
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Flora Lichtman· Host0:44
[upbeat music] Hey there, this is Flora Lichtman, and you're listening to Science Friday. Data centers have been a hot topic in Maine this week. These centers, which are increasingly needed to support the AI industry, are controversial. They use a lot of power and water, and they can drive up electricity costs. The state's House and Senate passed an 18-month moratorium on data center construction. It would've been the first statewide ban, but Maine's governor, Janet Mills, vetoed the plan, citing concerns about jobs. Here to break it all down is Pete McGuire, climate reporter at Maine Public Radio. Thanks for being here.
Pete McGuire· Guest1:24
Glad to be here. Thank you.
Flora Lichtman· Host1:25
Okay, so what were the details of this data center ban that, that