Gov. Cox signs executive order creating 'higher standards' for data center development
Utah Governor Spencer Cox signed an executive order establishing a statewide framework for data center development. This move follows significant public backlash concerning the proposed Stratos Data Center in Box Elder County and aims to address issues such as water resources, air quality, utility rates, and wildlife impacts. The order mandates state agencies to prioritize environmental protection and public engagement, potentially delaying the Stratos project.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox has issued an executive order creating a new statewide "Data Center Framework" to regulate the industry, effective immediately. The action follows weeks of significant public backlash against the proposed Stratos Data Center in Box Elder County. Critics raised concerns about the project's size, its environmental impact on the Great Salt Lake, and potential effects on water, air quality, utility rates, and local quality of life.
The executive order directs state agencies to prioritize the protection of water resources, safeguard utility ratepayers, protect air quality, mitigate wildlife impacts, and support transparent public engagement. It also mandates that all data center developments must align with Utah's "long-term interests." Governor Cox acknowledged the public's "important questions" and stated that the order establishes a "higher bar" for project evaluation, ensuring both economic strength and environmental stewardship.
While some opponents, like Jake Dreyfous of Grow the Flow, welcomed the governor's change in tone, others remained skeptical, calling the order "worthless." Governor Cox indicated that the order could delay the Stratos project and mentioned the possibility of a special legislative session in September to further amend state laws regarding data centers.