Data Center Impact Analysis and Report

Senate Bill 116 requires Maryland's Department of the Environment, Maryland Energy Administration, and the University of Maryland School of Business (with coordination from the Department of Legislative Services) to study the environmental, energy, and economic impacts of data center development in the state. The analysis must evaluate effects on air/water quality, Chesapeake Bay goals, energy demand and costs, greenhouse gas emissions, tax revenues, and job creation. The agencies must complete a final report by September 1, 2026, for review by the Governor and legislature. The bill does not regulate data centers directly but provides a data-driven foundation for future policy decisions. It expires automatically on June 30, 2027.