Moore, Lisonbee respond to proposed data center backlash

Congressman Blake Moore and State Representative Karianne Lisonbee have publicly addressed the controversy surrounding a proposed data center in Box Elder County, Utah, for the first time. The project, backed by developer Kevin O'Leary and O'Leary Digital, was recently approved by the Box Elder County commissioners despite significant public backlash. Concerns primarily center on the facility's projected massive water consumption in a state experiencing drought conditions and its reliance on natural gas-fired plants for its 9-gigawatt power needs. Moore, representing the congressional district, condemned threats against the commissioners and expressed hope for balancing development benefits with natural resource protection. Lisonbee, his Republican primary opponent, criticized the approval process, citing a lack of public comment and transparency. She also raised questions about the long-term impact on water and natural gas prices, suggesting the Legislature should re-evaluate tax incentives for such projects. The data center, planned for 40,000 acres, is presented by developers as a boost to national security through AI and cloud computing capabilities. Amid the debate, the Utah Legislature passed new water reporting requirements for developers, effective before the project's approval, in response to the critically low levels of the Great Salt Lake.