Residents continue to voice concerns over Project Jupiter with new committee and listening session

Dona Ana County commissioners unanimously approved the creation of a Community Monitoring Committee aimed at keeping residents informed about the Project Jupiter data center in Santa Teresa, New Mexico. The committee, which will consist of 11 resident members, is tasked with disseminating information and serving as a forum for residents' questions regarding the data center’s potential impacts on water, air, noise, and pollution. Commission Chair Manuel Sanchez stated that Project Jupiter companies, including Oracle, would be encouraged to cooperate and participate in the committee's information forums.

This development occurs amidst ongoing public opposition to Project Jupiter. A recent listening session in Las Cruces, New Mexico, saw residents expressing significant concerns to Dona Ana County state senators Joseph Cervantes, Carrie Hamblen, Bill Soles, and Jeff Steinborn. Key issues raised included potential health impacts, greenhouse gas emissions, permit issuance, and the project's energy plan, which involves Bloom Energy fuel cells. State Senator Carrie Hamblen indicated that she is collaborating with other lawmakers on a proposal to enact a statewide moratorium on new data center projects, though its specific implications for Project Jupiter, which is already underway, are still being determined.

Members of the "Stop Project Jupiter" group voiced support for the new committee as a step toward increased oversight but reiterated their fundamental concerns about the project remain. They are actively petitioning for the resignation of Chair Manuel Sanchez, asserting he has not adequately represented his constituents. Additionally, State Senator Jeff Steinborn announced plans to reintroduce the Microgrid Oversight Act, a bill intended to mandate renewable energy for microgrids and protect utility customers from rising costs.