Salt Lake Tribune : Utah can welcome data centers — without selling out its principles
An op-ed advocates for Utah to welcome data centers, such as a proposed project in Box Elder County, by maintaining neutral tax policies and fair regulations. It highlights Utah's energy potential and addresses water concerns by emphasizing existing water rights and conservation efforts. The authors believe adhering to these principles will benefit Utah's future growth.
An op-ed penned by researchers from the Pacific Legal Foundation, based in Cache County, discusses the appropriate policy approach for Utah regarding the influx of data center proposals, specifically referencing a project in neighboring Box Elder County. The authors advocate for a balanced strategy: neither punishing nor overly privileging data centers through tax breaks.
They emphasize Utah's strong economic outlook and abundant energy resources, including natural gas, solar, geothermal, and advanced nuclear capabilities, as natural attractions for these energy-intensive facilities. The article notes that the Box Elder project's backers plan to build their own generation assets, leveraging Utah's 2025 legislation on new large loads.
The piece also addresses public concerns about water usage, clarifying that data centers must procure water from existing users via established water rights, meaning no net increase in total water use is anticipated. It points to major tech companies like Amazon, Microsoft, Meta, and Google, as having public commitments to water positivity and conservation. The op-ed concludes that by adhering to principles of sound policy and reasonable regulation, Utah can integrate data centers, fostering high-paying jobs and a broader tax base without compromising its values.