Baltimore County Planning Board Reviews Data Center Regulations

BALTIMORE COUNTY, Md. — Baltimore County staff presented a report regarding hyperscale data centers to the county's Planning Board on Thursday. This discussion comes as the county has placed a moratorium on new data center developments until January 1, 2027.

The report examines the economic, public health, and environmental ramifications of data centers and recommends implementing stringent regulations. Among the proposed measures is a ban on locating data centers near schools, homes, parks, and day care facilities.

Reed Cahill, a local resident who attended the meeting, expressed cautious optimism about the recommendations. He noted concerns that data centers are often planned for already burdened and underprivileged areas, suggesting that the proposed regulations could help mitigate corporate encroachment in these communities.

One significant concern highlighted in the report is noise pollution. The backup generators used by hyperscale data centers can reach noise levels of 105 decibels, comparable to the sound of a motorcycle. The report suggests limiting this noise to 55 decibels.

Additionally, the financial impact on residents has been a point of concern, as the report indicates that data centers have contributed to rising energy bills, a trend expected to continue for at least the next three years. This is particularly troubling for residents already facing high charges from Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE).

Water usage is another critical issue, with a single data center potentially consuming over 500,000 gallons of water. Cahill emphasized the connection between water access and environmental justice, bringing attention to the implications for local wildlife.

The report also encourages the county to require data center developers to engage in contracts that support community goals, including funding for climate resilience and workforce development initiatives.

Dr. Danita Tolson from the Baltimore County NAACP acknowledged the report's recommendations but stressed the need for further research. She advocated for a broader examination of potential data center locations, emphasizing the importance of equitable distribution across various communities.

The Planning Board is scheduled to hold a public meeting to discuss the report further on September 3rd.

Reported by HarborBeat based on WMAR-2 News (source).