[Baltimore Sun] Maryland would be foolish not to embrace data centers | GUEST COMMENTARY
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With rapid technological advancements reshaping industries and communities alike, data centers have emerged as critical infrastructure. But they’re more than just tech hubs — they’re drivers of Maryland’s economic resilience, workforce development and community sustainability.
And as with any new development or technology, they’re being met with some healthy skepticism by Marylanders. But when we dive into the real benefits of these facilities — and explore ways to ensure they remain low-impact, high-value projects for our state — I believe that skepticism will fade.
As the executive director of the Maryland chapter of the National Electrical Contractors Association, I’ve witnessed firsthand how investments in infrastructure projects can provide high-paying jobs and drive new economic growth. Data centers are prime examples. Not only are they important to the digital world, but they bring immense local benefits by way of job creation, skill-building and sustainable community growth.
Maryland’s electrical contractors and tradespeople stand ready to support the development of data centers with expertise and a focus on quality and safety. The skilled labor required to design, install and maintain these facilities is significant — and fortunately, it’s right here, ready to work in Maryland. As our industry expands to accommodate growing tech infrastructure, data center projects present an incredible opportunity for our contractors to provide essential, high-quality work and to develop a lasting impact on our local economy.
And the good news is that you don’t have to take my word for it. The work is already underway.
In Frederick County, Rowan Digital Infrastructure is anticipating approximately $19 million in annual tax contributions to the county generated by its construction of three data centers, creating a reliable revenue source that directly benefits public services, schools and infrastructure. For Marylanders, this means upgraded schools, better public amenities and improved quality of life — all without overburdening residential taxpayers.
Beyond tax revenue, these projects drive job growth and skill development. In an increasingly competitive regional job market, Maryland’s data centers are positioned to equip our residents with in-demand skills. These developments represent job opportunities not only for workers right now, but for workers in the future too. We have a responsibility in this state to ensure that our students graduate and find a job market that has a secure place for their skills. Maryland would be foolish to scare a promising industry like digital infrastructure away.
As someone who has been involved in data center construction, I can confirm that Maryland’s young data center industry is prioritizing sustainability. Many projects aim for low-carbon construction and prioritize renewable energy sources. The partnership between data centers and the electrical contracting community is key here, as their expertise in energy-efficient installations and innovative energy management can keep these projects in line with Maryland’s environmental goals. In a state where preserving natural beauty and environmental integrity is crucial, it’s inspiring to see data center developers working proactively to minimize their environmental impact and engage community stakeholders.
Maryland has the opportunity to do data centers right: to show the nation what community-driven and sustainable digital infrastructure looks like. These investments strengthen our economy, enrich our workforce, and underscore our commitment to a greener, more resilient future. For all Marylanders who want to see our communities grow, our economy thrive and our young people build their futures here, supporting data center projects is one step toward a stronger Maryland — and it’s starting in Frederick County.
William Yull is executive director of the Maryland chapter of the National Electrical Contractors Association.
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