Candidates for New Mexico governor outline plans for data centers
New Mexico gubernatorial candidates, Deb Haaland and Gregg Hull, presented contrasting approaches to data center development. Haaland proposes an executive order for a moratorium on new large-scale data centers, pending the establishment of environmental protections and renewable energy requirements, while Hull advocates utilizing existing economic development laws and local decision-making to regulate the industry.
New Mexico's gubernatorial candidates, Democrat Deb Haaland and Republican Gregg Hull, have articulated divergent strategies for managing data center development within the state. Data centers are a contentious issue due to their significant electricity and water demands, and their role in powering artificial intelligence.
Haaland announced her intent to issue an executive order for a moratorium on new large-scale data center projects on "day one" of her governorship. This moratorium would remain in effect until stringent protections are implemented, including requirements for data centers to develop their own renewable energy infrastructure and present robust environmental impact prevention plans. She emphasized the importance of New Mexico's environment and limited water resources, stating these restrictions would provide accountability and sustainability for the industry.
In opposition, Hull argued against a moratorium, asserting that it would not curb artificial intelligence development and would send a negative "New Mexico is closed for business" message. He advocates for leveraging existing legislation, such as the New Mexico’s Local Economic Development Act, which he believes provides the state sufficient authority to negotiate terms and impose restrictions on incoming companies. Hull also expressed trust in local counties and municipalities to make decisions, citing Project Jupiter in Doña Ana county, which has faced environmental challenges, as an example. He also cautioned against singling out the data center industry when other sectors like manufacturing (e.g., Intel) are also high water users.