El Paso proposes new policy framework for data centers

The city of El Paso has unveiled a draft of its Data Center Policy Framework, a comprehensive plan designed to increase accountability for large data centers regarding their environmental and community effects. The release of this draft coincided with the El Paso City Council's approval of a measure to halt the recruitment and incentivization of new data center projects within the city.

The initiative to develop the Policy Framework was first approved by the City Council in February, initiating a 90-day period for the city manager to formulate a plan. During this time, the city conducted extensive research, analysis, and community engagement, including six public meetings and an online survey that gathered feedback from over 800 residents.

Key concerns articulated by the community centered on the significant water and electricity demands of data centers, the potential for rising utility costs, broader environmental impacts, and issues of transparency and economic incentives. Residents also voiced opposition to the Meta data center currently under construction in the Northeast, advocating for the cancellation of its 380 Agreement, though the draft framework explicitly states it will not alter existing agreements.

Mayor Renard Johnson emphasized that the draft framework directly addresses public concerns about water, infrastructure, and energy, aiming to establish stronger safeguards, greater transparency, and improved oversight. City Manager Dionne Mack underscored that the framework is a robust tool for future decisions, reflecting public input and offering practical measures to protect infrastructure and ensure transparency for future hyperscale data center proposals. The public is invited to review and provide feedback on the draft policy online before the City Council considers its final approval.