President Sheinbaum has recently addressed the growing presence of data centers in Mexico, highlighting a balanced approach that acknowledges their necessity for advancements in artificial intelligence while expressing concerns about the country becoming a hub for global data demand. During her press conference, she emphasized that while Mexico needs data centers to foster AI development, the country should not be a “global data center” due to the significant energy and water requirements these facilities entail, which could strain local resources.
In Querétaro, a key player in the expansion of AI, this conversation has gained urgency as residents worry about the potential impacts on essential resources. Sheinbaum responded to queries regarding power consumption and outages affecting investments in Querétaro, referencing data from the Federal Electricity Commission that indicates improvements in this area. She noted the pressing need for investments in electricity transmission and distribution rather than just increasing production capacity.
As of January, Mexico hosts approximately 47 data centers, primarily located in Querétaro, Mexico City, and Guanajuato, with an additional 12 in development. Notably, KIO Data Centers announced a substantial investment of up to $1.3 billion to build a new facility in Querétaro aiming to support local cloud and AI infrastructure needs.
While recognizing that data centers contribute to economic growth, Sheinbaum pointed out that they offer minimal job creation and have a substantial environmental footprint. She asserted that her administration prioritizes sectors such as manufacturing, which provide more employment opportunities without overexerting natural resources.
In her vision, the development of data centers should align with Mexico’s specific technology needs and long-term resource management. Sheinbaum advocates for a thoughtful strategy that emphasizes sustainable growth over external demands, aiming to balance technological progress with local community needs.