Study projects health impacts from proposed Stratos data center; O'Leary's team disputes findings
A study by EmPower Analytics Group estimates that emissions from the proposed Stratos data center campus in Box Elder County could contribute to up to 45 premature deaths annually and as much as $690 million in health-related costs. Stratos representatives, backed by Kevin O'Leary's team, dispute the study's assumptions and say the project will comply with air-quality standards.
EmPower Analytics Group released an analysis of the proposed Stratos artificial intelligence data center campus in Box Elder County, warning that emissions from possible methane-powered generation could worsen air pollution across northern Utah and neighboring states. The study estimates potential impacts including premature deaths, asthma cases, hospital admissions and heart attacks, with annual health-related costs reaching up to $690 million.
Researchers said the analysis was intended to inform decision-makers before major project approvals and relied on established atmospheric modeling methods, although it has not been peer-reviewed. Dr. Logan Mitchell of Utah Clean Energy defended the study, while a representative for investor Kevin O'Leary and the Stratos project said the report presents modeled assumptions as confirmed impacts, uses a higher-emission scenario based on another Utah facility, and does not reflect Stratos' planned design. The project has not specified how it will power the campus but says its facilities will meet state and federal air-quality standards.