New Mexico Tech aims to quell concerns among Socorrans about 'green' data center
A proposed data center project at New Mexico Tech in Socorro has faced strong community opposition due to concerns about water and power usage. In response, Socorro County commissioners are considering a one-year moratorium on data centers. Other New Mexico localities are also addressing data center development, with Bernalillo County having already adopted conditions for tax incentives.
A recent community meeting regarding a proposed data center project at the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology in Socorro devolved into vocal opposition from local residents, who expressed skepticism about the project's resource use and transparency. New Mexico Tech President Michael Jackson and developer Jason Bak, CEO of Green Data Centers, attempted to address concerns, with Bak highlighting plans for atmospheric water generation to mitigate water usage. The university plans to host more public forums as the project is still in its early stages.
In response to the community's outcry, Socorro County commissioners are considering a one-year data center moratorium, with a vote possibly scheduled for their June 9 meeting. University officials believe their status as a state-owned institution may exempt campus property from local ordinances, though a specific site has not yet been selected. This local consideration comes as other New Mexico municipalities, like Bernalillo County, have already adopted regulations, setting conditions on tax incentives for data center developers to ensure local benefits and responsible resource use. El Paso City Council is also set to consider a similar bill.