Colfax eyes future water demands as data center questions continue
Colfax County commissioners discussed the long-term water demands of potential data center and energy developments, expressing concern that initial water use projections may underestimate actual consumption, especially for cooling systems. Amidst severe drought conditions, the commission is considering requiring 10-year water demand projections for future large industrial projects.
Colfax County commissioners, during their May 26 meeting, grappled with the anticipated water demands of future large industrial projects, specifically data centers, in the region. The commissioners expressed skepticism about initial short-term water use projections often provided by developers, particularly regarding "closed-loop" cooling systems, which they believe may not fully account for long-term consumption needed for system maintenance and recharging. Chairman Todd Tatum cited projections for Texas data centers, indicating they could consume up to 9% of the state's total water supply by 2040, highlighting the scale of potential impact.
Though no formal proposals are currently before the commission, officials noted ongoing conversations related to energy infrastructure and data development. Consequently, commissioners are discussing a policy to require future data center projects to submit 10-year water demand projections instead of short-term estimates. This discussion is set against the backdrop of a formal resolution declaring severe drought conditions across Colfax County, emphasizing the critical importance of water resource management in northeastern New Mexico.
The meeting also covered other county business, including the approval of an expanded paving project in the Bartlett Subdivision using state grant funds and a review of the county's unfunded Infrastructure Capital Improvement Plan. Discussions around the capital plan highlighted the need for local funding for some projects, such as Judicial Center repairs and network infrastructure upgrades, suggesting a shift in financial strategy for future improvements.