Meta’s recent announcement of a new AI data center in El Paso follows closely on the heels of progress made by Project Jupiter—an equally large-scale computing facility planned in neighboring Doña Ana County, New Mexico. This initiative is part of Stargate, a national infrastructure effort unveiled by former President Trump in January alongside OpenAI, Oracle, and SoftBank, involving a total investment of $500 billion across multiple states.
Five AI centers are in development, located in Santa Teresa (NM), Abilene (TX), Milam County (TX), Shackelford County (TX), and Lordstown (OH). The Doña Ana site was selected due to its expansive terrain, existing logistical networks, and proximity to regional energy infrastructure. In September, county officials approved advancing the project after holding several public consultations.
Proponents emphasize the economic benefits, including up to $165 billion in local investment, $300 million in direct county payments, over 2,500 construction jobs, and more than 750 permanent positions. Advocates highlight opportunities for youth engagement and workforce development, stating, “Both the opportunities for youth, for good workforce, and again, for New Mexico to participate in the project explosion that’s happening around the country and around the world.”
However, critics raise concerns about environmental sustainability, particularly regarding water consumption and energy use. One resident voiced skepticism: “It’s just going to be another hazard. We already have the land field, we have a power plant, we have a cycle. They just come, private companies come, make money and they do. It’s just a hazard.”
Developers assert that the facility will limit water usage to employee domestic needs only and will generate its own power supply. Despite these commitments, community members remain cautious, awaiting tangible proof that promises will be upheld once construction commences.
— news from KFOX
— News Original —
Project Jupiter ignites debate: Economic tech boom or ecological bane for Borderland?
Meta’s announcement of a new AI data center in El Paso comes just one month after Project Jupiter — another massive data center planned next door in Doña Ana County — took a major step forward. n nHere’s the background behind that project and how we got here. n
Known as Project Jupiter, this artificial intelligence data center is expected to bring significant investment and job opportunities to the region. n
However, it also raises questions about water usage, energy demands, and community impact. n
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Project Jupiter is a key component of Stargate, a national pipeline project aimed at expanding the U.S. ‘s capacity to train and run massive AI systems. n
The initiative, announced by President Trump in January alongside tech giants OpenAI, Oracle, and SoftBank, involves a $500 billion investment across the country. n
Five AI data centers are planned, including locations in: n
Santa Teresa, New Mexico n
Abilene, Texas n
Milam County, Texas n
Shackelford County, Texas n
Lordstown, Ohio n
Developers chose the desert location for its open land, available infrastructure, and access to regional energy corridors. n
In September, Doña Ana County commissioners voted to move the project forward after several public meetings. n
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While some residents support the project for its potential to create jobs and boost the local economy, others express concerns about environmental impacts. n
One supporter highlighted the opportunities for youth and workforce development, saying, “Both the opportunities for youth, for good workforce, and again, for New Mexico to participate in the project explosion that ‘s happening around the country and around the world.” n
Conversely, a concerned resident argued, “It ‘s just going to be another hazard. We already have the land field, we have a power plant, we have a cycle. They just come, private companies come, make money and they do. It ‘s just a hazard.” n
According to the , Project Jupiter and Stargate promise to: n
Limit water use to domestic employee needs n
Build and supply their own power n
Invest up to $165 billion in Doña Ana County n
Deliver $300 million in direct payments to the county n
Create over 2,500+ construction jobs and 750+ permanent jobs n
Despite these assurances, many in the community remain vigilant, watching to see if these promises are fulfilled once construction begins. n
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