Supporters see jobs and growth, while critics warn about power use and heat concerns.
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CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas \u2014 A proposed artificial intelligence data center campus planned for Nueces County is already generating debate over jobs, power demand and possible environmental impacts.<\/p>\n
Miami-based Hut 8<\/a> announced plans this week for the Beacon Point campus, a large-scale AI computing project that could eventually support up to 1,000 megawatts of utility power.<\/p>\n While supporters say it could bring high-paying technical jobs and economic growth to the Coastal Bend, some residents and environmental advocates are questioning the project\u2019s electricity use and potential heat impacts.<\/p>\n Corpus Christi City Councilwoman Carolyn Vaughn says she\u2019s heard the facility could be built near homes off Highway 44.<\/p>\n \u201cFrom my understanding off of 44, between Callicoate and Violet. That\u2019s my understanding because my granddaughter lives out there and I think it\u2019s going to back up to their property,\u201d Vaughn said. \u201cSo, I just wanna make sure it\u2019s environmentally safe.\u201d<\/p>\n Hut 8 says the project will use a closed-loop water system designed to reduce water consumption, an issue that has become increasingly important in South Texas as communities continue dealing with long-term water supply concerns.<\/p>\n Still, environmental groups say the facility\u2019s electrical demand could create other issues.<\/p>\n \u201cMy main concern is the electricity, you know how is that going to impact our electricity rates,\u201d Jason Hale with the Sierra Club said. \u201cAnother one is micro climate. There have been a lot of studies that show it increases the temperatures nearby by like 7\u00b0F.\u201d<\/p>\n Supporters of the project argue that the development could bring long-term economic benefits and help expand the region\u2019s technology sector.<\/p>\n Mark Escamilla, president of Del Mar College, said the college already offers programs that could help meet future demand created by the project.<\/p>\n \u201cThere are a number of programs here at Del Mar College that are ready and able to support those workforce needs,\u201d Escamilla said.<\/p>\n According to Hut 8, the first phase of the Beacon Point campus could be energized by early 2027.<\/p>\n More from 3NEWS on KIIITV.com: \u00a0<\/p>\n