Gov. Cox signs order creating "higher bar" for data centers
Utah Governor Spencer Cox signed an executive order establishing a statewide framework for evaluating large data centers, creating a "higher bar" for future developments. The order was prompted by public concerns over environmental impact, utility costs, and resource strain, specifically mentioning the proposed Stratos Project in Box Elder County. It directs state agencies to prioritize water resource and air quality protection, among other principles, and could potentially delay existing projects.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox signed Executive Order 2026-03, establishing a statewide framework to create a "higher bar" for future large data center development. The order directs state agencies to apply specific principles when reviewing projects, focusing on public concerns regarding environmental impact, utility costs, water resources, air quality, and local quality of life.
The initiative was influenced by public feedback, particularly concerning proposals like the Stratos Project in Box Elder County. The framework prioritizes protecting the Great Salt Lake and other water resources, safeguarding air quality, promoting rural economic growth, mitigating wildlife impacts, protecting utility ratepayers, and supporting energy infrastructure development. A key provision mandates that unused water from future data center projects be directed to the Great Salt Lake.
Governor Cox stated that the executive order could potentially delay projects, including the Stratos Project. He clarified that previous approvals by the Military Installation Development Authority (MIDA) for the Stratos Project only addressed land-use issues, not environmental permitting.
Box Elder County officials confirmed they are reviewing the order and its potential effects on state-level reviews. They reiterated that the county has not approved the construction of any data center, with past actions limited to land inclusion within the MIDA project area and an interlocal agreement for local protections.