Maine committee weighs limiting data centers’ use of on‑site hydro power at Millinocket redevelopment

A bill to limit the amount of on‑site electricity that can be sold to data centers at a former paper mill site in Millinocket drew a full public hearing before the Joint Standing Committee on Energy, Utilities and Technology on April 3.

Senator Chip Curry (sponsor) told the committee LD 912 as amended is aimed at preserving the redevelopment value of the former Great Northern Paper Mill site by limiting the amount of behind‑the‑meter power that could be promised to data centers. “The amended version of LD 912 seeks to limit the amount of power that can be promised to data centers, ensuring that the resources available to promote the broader economic development goals on the site and in the region,” Curry said.

Supporters from 1 North (also referred to as Our Katahdin), which markets the Millinocket site, argued data centers could buy all available hydropower and crowd out other industrial users that promise more local jobs and broader economic impacts. Shane Flynn of 1 North said prospective industrial users include a salmon farm the group estimates would require about 50 acres, employ about 85 full‑time people and…