A county in the New Mexico borderlands, eager for economic opportunity, approved what would be one of the largest data centers in the entire country — complete with its own gas-powered electricity plant. But now that the deal is done, some are wishing they had thought twice.
The region, which has long sought ways to bring jobs and investment to its struggling economy, saw the massive data center project as a potential lifeline. Officials moved forward with approval, hoping the development would deliver the economic boost the area desperately needs.
However, a sense of buyer’s remorse has begun to set in. Questions are now being raised about whether the benefits of the project are worth the trade-offs that come with hosting such a large facility — including the gas-fired power plant that will be built to keep it running.
