Key developments
Ohio data center tax break costs soar
WKYC reported that Ohio's Department of Taxation now estimates the state's data-center sales-tax exemption cost about $555 million in 2024 and $1.57 billion in 2025, far above earlier forecasts. The break can waive up to 100% of Ohio's 5.75% statewide sales tax for up to 15 years on qualifying projects, and local sales taxes lost another $166.8 million in 2024. Gov. Mike DeWine vetoed lawmakers' attempt to repeal the incentive, and the new figures are increasing pressure for legislative review.
Why it matters
The updated cost estimate turns Ohio's data-center incentive debate into a major fiscal and policy issue.
Sources & driving stories
WKYC
WKYC coverageMontana project plans 1,785 MW of gas
Northern Plains Resource Council's Emma Hardy reported that Montana Department of Environmental Quality emails describe Quantica Infrastructure's Broadview project as relying on 1,785 MW of gas-fired generation, including 585 MW from engines and 1,200 MW from turbines. The site covers about 5,100 acres north of Billings, and DEQ said the project would likely need a Major NSR-PSD air permit that could trigger public review and an environmental impact statement. Quantica says planning is still early and says it is evaluating renewables plus additional reliable capacity, with power targeted by 2028 and operations in late 2029.
Why it matters
The emails reveal a very large fossil-fuel-backed data center plan that is likely to face major air-permitting scrutiny.
Sources & driving stories
NORTHERN PLAINS RESOURCE COUNCIL · Emma Hardy
Northern Plains Resource Council coverageMaine launches data center advisory council
The Maine Department of Environmental Protection and Department of Energy Resources announced the Maine Data Center Advisory Council, created by Gov. Janet Mills through executive order. The 17-member panel will hold its first meeting on June 3 and is due to deliver recommendations by Jan. 29, 2027 on ratepayer protection, grid reliability, environmental impacts, and whether existing safeguards should be strengthened. Officials also said the state will work with the Public Utilities Commission to protect residents from data-center-driven energy cost increases.
Why it matters
Maine is formally beginning a state-level policy process that could shape future data-center siting and regulation.
Sources & driving stories
MAINE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
Maine Department of Environmental Protection coverageWorth noting
WORTH NOTING
First nuclear-powered data center pitched
Clayco and Deep Atomic say they are pursuing a DOE submission for a nuclear-powered hyperscale AI campus, signaling an emerging dedicated-power strategy for data centers.
WORTH NOTING
Local moratoriums spread across municipalities
Wright County, Grafton, and Penn Township all approved pauses or bans within days, showing rising local resistance to new data-center development.
Still unclear
OPEN QUESTION
Will Ohio lawmakers revisit the exemption?
The new cost estimate and DeWine's veto keep the fate of Ohio's data-center tax break unresolved.
OPEN QUESTION
Will Montana require a full public EIS?
DEQ emails already suggest the Broadview project could trigger a Major NSR-PSD permit and environmental impact statement.