Google Explores Potential Data Center in New Mexico Amid Environmental Concerns

Google has announced that it is exploring a potential data center in Lea County, New Mexico. The tech giant published a brief blog post on September 14, 2026, stating its goal to be transparent and start a conversation with the community early.

The company's announcement did not provide specific details about the type of data center or when it might present a detailed proposal to the local Board of County Commissioners. Google set up a website for the project, leacountydatacenter.com, which says that company leaders are in talks with local officials to determine if Lea County is the right fit.

The website displays a pop-up questionnaire asking visitors to select their top two priorities for the development from a list of choices. It also states that water use during construction will average more than 900,000 gallons daily and that its energy source is likely to be a mix of solar, wind, batteries, and gas-powered resources.

Lea County Board of County Commissioners Chair Tyson Pierce said he did not have many details regarding the site. He mentioned that controversy often follows data center proposals, especially in regions dealing with environmental concerns such as water insecurity. The county commission adopted a resolution in February establishing specific guidelines for data center developments.

The resolution prohibits the use of evaporative cooling and requires data centers on a public utility grid to not raise residents' or businesses' rates. It also demands that data center operators publish annual water use reports, including separate amounts for cooling, landscaping, on-site power generation, plumbing, and any other uses.

Pierce emphasized the importance of being cautious in light of potential environmental concerns and stated that the commission will do everything in its power to ensure a fair outcome. Several state lawmakers plan to propose a statewide data center moratorium in the upcoming legislative session.