Cox issues executive order on 'evaluation and development' of data centers

Governor Spencer Cox of Utah has issued an executive order aimed at establishing new regulations for data center development across the state. The order directs state agencies to prioritize environmental protection, conservation of resources such as the Great Salt Lake, and the interests of ratepayers and air quality, while also ensuring greater transparency in development processes. This move follows significant public feedback, including opposition to data center projects, particularly concerning their environmental impact and water usage. Cox acknowledged these concerns, stating that the executive order is a response to widespread worries about resource consumption and the Great Salt Lake.

The order seeks to coordinate state efforts to address these issues before a rapid expansion of data centers. Critics, however, view the executive order as a "PR stunt," arguing that it lacks real enforcement power and comes too late. They point to an ongoing legal battle over the Stratus data center project in Box Elder County. A citizen referendum to challenge the Box Elder County Commission's approval of the Stratus project was initially rejected but is slated for further court proceedings, indicating continued opposition. Governor Cox maintains the order is a necessary step to evaluate the impact data centers can have on Utah, while clarifying that bodies like the Military Installation Development Authority have no authority over project specifics like size or water usage of data centers.