Sierra County implements 18-month moratorium on data centers
The Sierra County Commission in New Mexico has unanimously approved an 18-month moratorium on new data center development. This decision follows similar actions in Santa Fe and Socorro Counties, driven by concerns over excessive water usage and environmental harm from such facilities.
Sierra County, New Mexico, has officially implemented an 18-month moratorium on any new data center development. The County Commission's vote to enact the ban was unanimous, mirroring similar actions previously taken by Santa Fe and Socorro counties this year.
The moratorium comes amid growing apprehension over the environmental impact of data centers, specifically concerning their substantial water usage. Critics of such facilities, including those opposed to the large Project Jupiter facility under development in Dona Ana County, have voiced these concerns. The issue is also gaining traction at the state level, with some lawmakers reportedly advocating for a statewide policy.