1286: Maine nearly became the first state to ban data centers

from Science Friday · host Science Friday

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.Other episodes you may enjoy: As Companies Build Data Centers For AI, Communities Push Back Secrets Of Ancient Concrete, And… Data Centers In Space? Transcripts for each episode are available within 1-3 days at sciencefriday.com.Subscribe to this podcast. Plus, to stay updated on all things science, sign up for Science Friday's newsletters.

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Apr 25, 2026

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Maine shows how public mobilization is making a difference in determining where data centers go, and how they impact local communities.

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1286: Maine nearly became the first state to ban data centers

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