Sutherland Institute releases statement on Gov. Cox’s executive order on data centers
The Sutherland Institute released a statement commending Utah Governor Spencer Cox's executive order on data center infrastructure. The order aims to balance the economic and technological benefits of AI and data centers with responsible stewardship of energy, water, and air quality, establishing clear standards for development. The Institute believes Utah can lead by pursuing innovation and responsibility simultaneously.
The Sutherland Institute today released a statement from Ford Copple, praising Utah Governor Spencer Cox's executive order regarding data center infrastructure. The Institute commended the order as a forward-thinking initiative that positions Utah to become a national leader by embracing the economic and technological advantages of AI and data centers, while also ensuring responsible stewardship of energy, water, and air quality. Copple articulated that the executive order aligns with the public policy goal of advancing both technological innovation and environmental responsibility concurrently.
Copple, who co-authored the Institute's report "Building a Human-Centered Digital Future: Part 1, Data Centers," described the executive order as a constructive step towards establishing clear standards for one of the most pressing infrastructure challenges states face today. He emphasized the critical role data centers play in AI development, national competitiveness, workforce growth, public services, and long-term economic opportunity. Simultaneously, he acknowledged the significant questions their development raises concerning energy affordability, water conservation, air quality, infrastructure demands, and community trust.
The Sutherland Institute asserted that Governor Cox's executive order successfully addresses the idea that states must choose between innovation and stewardship. While recognizing that the framework's ultimate success will depend on its implementation, the Institute expressed confidence that through clear standards, meaningful accountability, and thoughtful community engagement, Utah can support the necessary infrastructure for AI while remaining faithful to the values that have established the state as a national leader. The Institute advocates for AI to advance human flourishing, expand economic opportunity, and serve the public good, with data centers being crucial infrastructure that Utah should develop with both ambition and responsibility.