New executive order establishes framework for data centers in Wyoming
Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon signed an executive order establishing a framework for future data center development in the state. The order outlines eight principles for data centers, including water sustainability, wildlife stewardship, and grid stewardship. While tech advocates praise the order for providing regulatory clarity, some legislators and conservationists criticize it as a fast-track process with potential environmental and ecological risks.
Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon has signed the "Wyoming Data Center Development Framework," an executive order aimed at guiding future data center development in the state. The order outlines eight core principles, including Water Sustainability, Wildlife and Natural Resource Stewardship, Transparency and Public Engagement, Energy Leadership and National Security, Grid Stewardship, Revenue-Driven Economic Growth, Responsible Workforce Growth, and Community Investment.
Marko Ruble, founder and CEO of Fundora.biz, praised the order for providing regulatory clarity from the executive branch. However, Wyoming State Senator Cheri Steinmetz, R-Torrington, criticized the order, viewing it as a "fast-track posture" that bypasses legislative oversight and directs agencies to streamline development rather than prioritize protection. John Burrows, energy and climate policy director for the Wyoming Outdoor Council, highlighted concerns about both direct and indirect impacts of data centers, specifically mentioning water consumption, emissions, noise, and habitat fragmentation. The order emphasizes safeguards to minimize water consumption and protect natural resources, referencing closed-loop cooling systems used in facilities like those in Cheyenne.
Fields, CEO of Plain Simple Technology (PST) in Cheyenne, acknowledged the potential for investment but cautioned that job creation might be