tech
Utah's governor just tightened the rules for Kevin O'Leary's giant AI data center
Tensions have been high in Utah after a local commission, despite opposition, approved a hyperscale data center campus spanning 40,000 acres.
TL;DR
- Utah Governor Spencer Cox issued an executive order establishing a "higher bar for data center development."
- The framework includes eight principles to protect water resources, air quality, wildlife, utility rate payers, and quality of life.
- It also emphasizes "human-led AI development" and transparent public comment opportunities.
- The order was issued in response to community opposition to the 40,000-acre Stratos Project data center in Box Elder County, backed by Kevin O'Leary.
- Opponents cite environmental impact, noise, air quality, traffic, and quality of life concerns.
- Supporters claim economic growth and job creation, while O'Leary has suggested external influences behind the protests.
- Data centers are becoming a significant political issue nationally ahead of elections.