New law requires data centers to inform public of water usage
Utah has passed HB 76, a new law requiring data centers to disclose their estimated and actual water usage to the state water engineer. State Representative Jill Kofod championed the bill, viewing it as a critical first step towards holding data centers accountable for resource consumption amid public concerns.
State Representative Jill Kofod discussed her recently passed bill, HB 76, which mandates that data centers in Utah disclose their anticipated and actual water usage. Speaking on ARC Salt Lake, Kofod highlighted public concerns regarding the size, power, and significant water consumption of data centers, particularly in Utah, the second driest state in the nation. She emphasized that the bill, which requires pre-construction estimates and annual reporting to the state water engineer, is an important initial step toward transparency and accountability.
Kofod acknowledged the strong public feelings and opposition surrounding data center developments but stressed the need for fact-based decisions rather than fear. She mentioned ongoing work by a legislative group to develop future data center policies, focusing on ensuring a net benefit for Utahns and protection of natural resources. Kofod also noted that the industry itself has been responsive to Utah's water challenges, with some new facilities adopting closed-loop systems that use minimal water. She cited Meta's expansion in Eagle Mountain as an example of a positive community partnership, contrasting it with other areas experiencing strong opposition.
While HB 76 does not impose water limits, Kofod stated that getting any heavier-handed legislation passed was not feasible at the time, making this the first law of its kind in the nation to pass. She reiterated the importance of obtaining data to allow cities and the state to plan appropriately for water needs. Kofod concluded that Utah's approach to data centers is balanced and pragmatic, aiming to attract responsible businesses that offer a net positive impact to communities and the state.