Understanding the data center boom
Utah is experiencing a data center boom, with hyper-scale projects like Stratus, Creekstone Energy, and Joule planned for Delta and Holden. These projects, supported by a presidential executive order aimed at easing regulations, are facing community opposition due to concerns about their rapid development and strain on the power grid and local resources.
Utah is at the forefront of the AI race, with several hyper-scale data center projects, including the Stratus Data Center, slated for the state. This influx is fueled by the insatiable demand for data from AI, with computing needs growing exponentially and taxing the existing power grid.
In central Utah, specifically in the town of Delta and near Holden, communities are expressing significant concerns. Residents feel that projects, such as Creekstone Energy's 1,100-acre campus with plans for 10 gigawatts of power, and the future Joule campus spanning 4,000 acres for up to 4 gigawatts, are being "rushed through" with little information. Many are worried about the impact on local resources, particularly water in the arid region, and the overall pace of development.
A July 2025 executive order signed by President Donald Trump aims to accelerate large-scale projects to maintain the US lead in national security and economic prosperity. The order includes provisions for tax incentives for developers, improved electrical infrastructure, and reduced regulatory burdens, directly aiding projects like the planned 10,000-acre Stratus campus designed for 9 gigawatts of power.
Brad Johnson from Bentley Systems, who consults with communities and developers, emphasizes that these projects must benefit local communities and enhance, rather than merely consume, the electrical infrastructure. He acknowledges that the rapid growth of AI is exposing grid deficiencies and advocates for collaboration between governments and developers to find solutions. Despite calls for careful consideration, many residents fear the rapid development is happening too quickly to assess its environmental and social impacts.