Data center company proposes large scale project in Socorro

Green Data Centers, led by CEO Jason Bak, is proposing a multi-year, multi-billion-dollar data center project in Socorro, New Mexico, touted as potentially the largest renewable-powered data center site globally. The project includes a 10-gigawatt solar facility on 10,000 acres west of M Mountain, aiming to generate two gigawatts of base-load power and deliver 100 megawatts per month, with battery storage for 24/7 operations. During an April 2 presentation to the Socorro Electric Co-op (SEC) Board, Bak emphasized a "renewables-first" design and a water-neutral approach using atmospheric water generation. He also mentioned discussions with state government officials who are receptive to the idea. The company holds a license to explore small modular nuclear reactor (SMR) technology for future smaller data centers, but any nuclear component would require explicit community support. Public attendees raised concerns about the project's true benefits to Socorro, the scale of power and land use, potential impacts on electricity rates, and the risk of targeting a low-income community with environmental and economic burdens. Questions also arose about using open land versus existing rooftops and the need for nuclear technology. Bak stated that the SEC meeting was an early informational step and that comprehensive community outreach would follow, asserting they would not proceed without community consent. Manuel Gonzales, SEC CEO, clarified that no decisions had been made and prioritized member benefits, promising more public meetings. Socorro Mayor Ravi Bhasker noted that the city's role is limited as the proposed site is outside city limits, and he remains undecided on the project's impact. Construction is contingent on approvals from New Mexico Tech, the Board of Regents, and coordination with SEC and Tri-State, alongside further public review.