Baltimore County, December 7, 2025
The proposal for a 150-megawatt data center in Baltimore County has stirred a significant backlash among residents and local officials, primarily due to the environmental impact and property concerns associated with a new 67-mile transmission line. The Baltimore County Council has decided to condemn the project, urging exploration of alternative solutions that would not harm the community. Local opposition highlights issues surrounding agricultural land loss, ecosystem disruption, and potential declines in property values, prompting a thorough examination of the project’s implications amidst increasing energy demands.
Baltimore County, Maryland
Proposed Data Center Sparks Transmission Line Controversy in Baltimore County
A proposed 150-megawatt data center in Baltimore County has ignited significant controversy, particularly concerning a 67-mile transmission line required to power the facility. Residents and local officials are expressing strong opposition due to environmental concerns, potential property devaluation, and the project’s impact on agricultural land.
The push for this data center is part of a broader statewide initiative aimed at meeting the increasing energy demands linked to digital infrastructure in the region. While the intention is to foster growth and innovation, local community members are raising critical questions about what sacrifices they may have to make in terms of environmental health and local property rights.
Project Overview
The data center is proposed for a 42-acre site on Woodlawn Drive. To support this facility, a new 67-mile transmission line is planned to connect it to the existing electrical grid. This line is expected to cross through various parts of Baltimore, Carroll, and Frederick counties to ensure a reliable and sufficient power supply.
Community and Official Opposition
Local residents have articulated several concerns:
- Environmental Impact: The transmission line is projected to disrupt over 500 acres of protected land, including forests and wetlands, potentially harming local ecosystems and water quality.
- Agricultural Land Use: The Maryland Farm Bureau has opposed the project, emphasizing the risk of losing agricultural land and the adverse effects on local food production.
- Property Values: Homeowners and business owners along the proposed route fear that the presence of the transmission line will decrease property values and disrupt daily operations.
In light of these substantial concerns, the Baltimore County Council has unanimously voted to condemn the Maryland Piedmont Reliability Project. This vote emphasizes the necessity for exploring alternative solutions that do not negatively impact the community.
Regulatory and Legal Developments
The Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) has established a procedural schedule for the project, with a final decision anticipated in spring 2027. This timeline allows sufficient time for comprehensive environmental assessments, public hearings, and the consideration of alternative routes based on community feedback.
PSEG, the company behind the transmission line, is actively seeking legal access to conduct environmental surveys on properties along the proposed route. There is an ongoing legal discussion as a federal judge is set to decide whether these surveys can proceed without the consent of property owners.
Background Context
The Maryland Piedmont Reliability Project aims to address the growing energy needs of data centers in the region. However, it faces substantial opposition, highlighting challenges in balancing technological advancement with environmental preservation, agricultural integrity, and community welfare.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the proposed data center in Baltimore County?
A 150-megawatt data center complex planned for a 42-acre site at 1500 Woodlawn Drive, including a new electrical substation. Construction could begin as early as June or July 2026.
What are the community concerns regarding the data center?
Residents are concerned about water usage, environmental impacts like air and noise pollution, increased energy demand, and potential negative effects on property values.
What is the Maryland Piedmont Reliability Project?
The Maryland Piedmont Reliability Project is a proposed 67-mile transmission line intended to supply power to data centers in the region, crossing parts of Baltimore, Carroll, and Frederick counties.
What is the current status of the project?
The Maryland Public Service Commission has established a procedural schedule for the project, with a final decision expected in spring 2027. PSEG is also seeking legal access to conduct environmental surveys on properties along the proposed route. A federal judge is expected to decide whether these surveys can proceed without the consent of property owners.
Key Features of the Proposed Data Center and Transmission Line Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Data Center Capacity | 150 megawatts |
| Site Location | 42-acre site at 1500 Woodlawn Drive, Baltimore County |
| Transmission Line Length | 67 miles |
| Proposed Route | Through parts of Baltimore, Carroll, and Frederick counties |
| Environmental Impact | Potential disruption of over 500 acres of protected land, including forests and wetlands |
| Agricultural Impact | Risk of losing agricultural land and adverse effects on local food production |
| Property Value Concerns | Potential decrease in property values and disruption to daily operations for homeowners and businesses along the proposed route |
| Regulatory Status | Maryland Public Service Commission has established a procedural schedule, with a final decision expected in spring 2027 |
| Legal Proceedings | PSEG seeking legal access to conduct environmental surveys; federal judge to decide on property access without owner consent |
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