Utah Governor signs executive order establishing statewide data center framework
Utah Governor Spencer Cox signed Executive Order 2026-03, establishing a statewide framework for evaluating large data center projects. This framework directs state agencies to prioritize water resource protection, safeguard utility ratepayers, protect air quality, mitigate wildlife impacts, and ensure public engagement. The order aims to ensure economic development aligns with environmental stewardship and the state's long-term interests.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox has signed Executive Order 2026-03, creating a statewide framework for evaluating and guiding large data center developments. The order, signed in Farmington, Utah, directs state agencies to prioritize critical environmental and economic factors. Key priorities include protecting the Great Salt Lake and other water resources by ensuring no increase in water consumption and maintaining water quality.
It also aims to protect utility ratepayers from bearing infrastructure costs for data centers, safeguard air quality, minimize wildlife impacts, and ensure transparent public engagement. Governor Cox emphasized that the framework establishes a "higher bar" for project evaluation, balancing economic strength with environmental stewardship in response to public concerns regarding data center impacts on water, air quality, utility rates, and quality of life. The announcement was made during a "Make the Lake Great Again" Roundtable, attended by state leaders, federal agencies, researchers, conservation groups, and business leaders, discussing the future of the Great Salt Lake. The executive order is effective immediately and directs state agencies to coordinate with local governments for implementation.