"A moratorium is appropriate given the impacts of massive data centers in other states on the environment and on electricity rates. But the final version of this bill fails to allow for a specific project in the Town of Jay that enjoys strong local support from its host community and region."
"The $550 million data center redevelopment project was needed in Jay, where a paper mill closure in 2023 eliminated hundreds of good-paying jobs and dealt a significant blow to the local economy."
"I believe it necessary and important to examine and plan for the potential impacts of large-scale data centers in Maine, as the use of artificial intelligence becomes more widespread."
Maine Governor Janet Mills vetoed a bill that aimed to pause new data center developments until late 2027. She supports a moratorium but objected to the lack of an exemption for a specific project in Jay, which has local support. The $550 million redevelopment project is expected to create over 800 construction jobs and 100 permanent jobs, crucial for the local economy after a paper mill closure. Mills plans to establish a council to study the impacts of data centers as AI usage increases.
Read at www.businessinsider.com
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