Most Utahns oppose building more data centers. Here’s what they want done about them.
A Utah State University survey found that nearly 76% of Utah residents oppose building more data centers in the state, with water and energy use among their primary concerns. Residents also expressed dissatisfaction with state and local officials and called for greater public participation and stricter environmental, water and energy regulations.
A Utah State University survey of nearly 900 residents found widespread opposition to additional data center development, with 76% saying they oppose or strongly oppose building more facilities in Utah. Respondents cited water consumption, energy demand, environmental impacts and a lack of transparency, while 84% said development is moving too quickly.
The findings follow protests over the proposed Stratos hyperscale campus in Box Elder County and opposition to other projects planned in Millard, Tooele and Carbon counties. Most respondents favored stronger environmental rules, limits on data center water and energy use, and a public process that gives affected communities more influence over development decisions. Gov. Spencer Cox, who previously defended hyperscale projects, has faced backlash after softening his position amid statewide opposition.