Utah governor backs Box Elder data center, defends timeline

Utah Governor Spencer Cox has publicly defended the controversial Stratos Data Center project planned for Box Elder County, asserting that it is not a "rush job" and that the state, along with others, has an obligation to permit such large-scale facilities. Speaking at his monthly PBS Utah news conference, Governor Cox highlighted the national security implications of data centers, stating, "We have to do this. We can't just say no and shut the doors and go home and let China win this technology race. Cox challenged what he called "incorrect information in the public sphere" regarding the proposed Stratos Data Center's potential water and power consumption. He reassured the public that Utah would not permit data centers to "take all of our power" or cause utility rate increases for consumers. Addressing concerns about the project's timeline, the Governor expressed frustration with delays in development, stating, "I'm so tired of our country taking years to get stuff done. It's the dumbest thing ever." He emphasized that if the project couldn't be located in the remote parts of Box Elder County, it couldn't be built anywhere. The Governor also mentioned positive discussions with Kevin O'Leary, a principal involved in the project. The Military Installation Development Authority (MIDA), a quasi-state entity, has reportedly "green lighted" the project in Box Elder County, despite ongoing public feedback and controversy.