Data center debate enters gubernatorial race, Project Jupiter donations under scrutiny
The debate over data center development, particularly 'Project Jupiter' in New Mexico, has become a key issue in the gubernatorial race. Democratic nominee Deb Haaland supports a statewide moratorium until strong protections for water and utility rates are in place, while Republican Gregg Hull favors local control for moratoriums and state legislation to protect residents. Several New Mexico counties have already enacted temporary data center moratoriums.
The controversial 'Project Jupiter,' a massive data center campus in Southern New Mexico, has brought the issue of data center development into the state's gubernatorial race. Residents have voiced concerns over water usage and other environmental impacts, though proponents highlight economic benefits and job growth.
Four New Mexico counties have already adopted data center moratoriums: Santa Fe County and Sierra County for 18 months, and Socorro County and Colfax County for one year. While municipalities within Colfax County, like Raton, can still approve data centers, many argue for statewide intervention.
Democratic gubernatorial nominee Deb Haaland has pledged to sign an executive order on Day 1 to implement a statewide moratorium on new data centers until substantial protections and enforcement mechanisms are established, addressing concerns like 'backroom deals,' energy rate increases, and water protections. This announcement follows reports from the Santa Fe New Mexican that her campaign received tens of thousands of dollars in contributions tied to Project Jupiter, including a $12,400 donation from Oracle.
Republican candidate Gregg Hull supports legislation to protect electric ratepayers and water, including banning the use of potable water by data centers and requiring them to pay for their own electrical infrastructure. However, Hull opposes a statewide moratorium, arguing that it sends a negative message and that each data center deal should be evaluated on its own merits, with local governments making decisions on moratoriums.