Gov. Cox signs Executive Order involving data center development, effective immediately
Governor Cox signed an Executive Order establishing a new statewide framework to guide large data center projects in Utah. The order aims to protect water resources, ensure public engagement, and align development with the state's long-term interests. It sets higher standards for project evaluation and reinforces a ban on new water rights in northern Utah.
Governor Spencer Cox of Utah signed an Executive Order establishing a statewide framework to guide the evaluation and development of large data center projects. The order, effective immediately, aims to set higher standards for data center construction and operation across the state.
According to the Governor's office, the new framework prioritizes the protection of water resources, safeguards the interests of Utahns, supports public engagement, and ensures that data centers align with the state's long-term strategic goals. Governor Cox stated that the order reinforces existing laws by ensuring all data centers adhere to these processes, specifically mentioning a prior executive order prohibiting new water rights in northern Utah.
Governor Cox emphasized that the executive order establishes "a higher bar for how these projects are evaluated" and ensures that "economic strength and environmental stewardship go hand in hand." The initiative directs state agencies under his authority to rigorously enforce these new standards and processes for all incoming data center projects.