Utah governor outlines data center policy framework
Utah Governor Spencer Cox signed an executive order establishing a policy framework for data centers. The order aims to protect the Great Salt Lake, maintain stable utility rates, and promote job growth in rural areas, without providing specific implementation details.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox issued an executive order on Friday to address concerns regarding large data center projects in the state. The framework seeks to safeguard the Great Salt Lake's water levels, prevent increases in utility bills, and protect air quality, wildlife, and overall quality of life for Utahns.
Governor Cox, a critic of big tech companies, emphasized that the framework ensures data center development aligns with Utah’s long-term interests and values. While the order promotes job creation in rural areas, it notably lacks specific plans for achieving these environmental and economic goals.
The directive also stipulates that the development of electricity generation and transmission for artificial intelligence data centers must not conflict with the state's broader economic and environmental objectives.