Data center proposals in Utah are controversial. What about in neighboring states?
Data center development is seeing varied responses across the Mountain West, with several localities in Utah, Colorado, Idaho, Michigan, and Oklahoma enacting moratoriums due to opposition. Conversely, Wyoming is actively encouraging development, with Governor Mark Gordon signing an executive order to create a framework for responsible growth. In Uinta County, Wyoming, a specific AI data center project from Prometheus Hypescale has been recommended for approval by the Planning Commission, despite local resident concerns, and awaits a final vote from county commissioners.
Communities across the Mountain West region are adopting diverse strategies regarding data center development. Utah has mandated public disclosure of water usage for new facilities and seen pushback, leading Iron County to pause applications. In Colorado, Denver enacted a one-year moratorium on data centers and apologized for a previous approval in a polluted area. Other moratoriums have been implemented in Oklahoma City, Huron County, Michigan, Kootenai County, Idaho, and Larimer and Logan counties in Colorado.
In contrast, Cheyenne, Wyoming, rejected a moratorium and is actively pursuing data center growth. Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon signed an executive order to establish a "Wyoming Way" framework, encouraging responsible development by asking centers to cover increased energy demand, create permanent jobs, and protect water and wildlife. While the order itself doesn't change policies, it directs state agencies to propose legislative actions and changes within 60 days. John Burrows of the Wyoming Outdoor Council expressed cautious optimism, hoping the framework will have a meaningful impact.
Simultaneously, an AI data center project by Prometheus Hypescale in Uinta County, southwest Wyoming, near Evanston and Mountain View, is progressing. Mountain View Mayor Bryan Ayres supports the project, provided it isn't unfairly subsidized and pays its fair share, noting Prometheus's claims of self-supplied energy and minimal local water impact. Residents have voiced concerns about the project's water and energy consumption. The Uinta County Planning Commission has recommended approval, with a final vote from county commissioners anticipated as early as June 16.