Utah governor signs executive order on data center development
Utah Gov. Spencer Cox signed an executive order establishing statewide guidelines for large data center development. The order focuses on balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship, addressing concerns about water use, air quality, and utility rates. This action follows significant public backlash against a proposed 40,000-acre data center project in Box Elder County.
Utah Gov. Spencer Cox signed an executive order on Friday to create a statewide framework for large data center development. The order mandates state agencies to consider water resources, air quality, utility rates, and wildlife protection, while also promoting economic growth in rural Utah and expanding energy generation. This executive action aims to balance the state's economic goals with environmental stewardship.
The governor's order comes in response to significant public outcry regarding a 40,000-acre data center project in Box Elder County. Protesters expressed concerns about the environmental impact and the involvement of "Shark Tank" investor Kevin O'Leary. Although the Box Elder County commissioners unanimously approved the project on May 4, Governor Cox had previously announced that five state agencies would need to approve specific aspects of Phase 1 construction. The new executive order further solidifies a comprehensive state-level approach to regulating future data center developments.