Maryland’s digital infrastructure is falling behind. While Northern Virginia has thousands of data centers powering AI, federal, and private systems, Maryland remains dependent on out-of-state facilities. This dependence increases transmission losses, strains our utility grid, and limits our ability to host next-generation industries locally.

The rapid growth of AI, biotech, cybersecurity, and defense data needs means Maryland must act now — or risk losing competitiveness and resilience.

The Solution — MADDEN

The Maryland Alliance for Distributed Data & Energy Networks (MADDEN) is a statewide coalition of citizens, businesses, institutions, and public leaders committed to advancing decentralized, sustainable data infrastructure.

MADDEN promotes the deployment of micro and modular data nodes powered by renewable energy — smaller, smarter systems that distribute energy demand, enhance grid stability, and reduce environmental impact.

By signing this petition, you call on state leaders to:

• Develop a Maryland Distributed Data Infrastructure Strategy.
• Create incentives and grants for modular data nodes.
• Streamline grid interconnection and permitting for micro data centers.
• Support public-private partnerships that pilot distributed systems in key counties.
• Form a state task force to coordinate decentralized infrastructure planning.

Why It Matters

• Environmental Impact: Smaller distributed data nodes reduce emissions and power loss.
• Grid Resilience: Decentralized energy use balances Maryland’s grid and eases peak demand.
• Economic Growth: Local data hubs attract high-tech businesses and keep jobs in Maryland.
• Security & Redundancy: Distributed systems lower outage risk and improve cybersecurity.
• Innovation Leadership: Maryland can model a clean, forward-thinking infrastructure strategy for the nation.

Our Vision

The MADDEN Alliance believes Maryland can lead the way in building a digital ecosystem that’s both powerful and sustainable. Together, we can ensure the next generation of data infrastructure supports innovation, community resilience, and environmental responsibility.

Join us. Sign now to show your support for a greener, smarter, more connected Maryland.