A Utah legislative panel approved a study that will examine the impacts of large data centers on wildlife and natural resources. This decision comes amid increasing public scrutiny over a significant proposed facility in Box Elder County.
The Utah Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Environment Interim Committee added this evaluation to its agenda for the summer. The insights gained will help shape state policies ahead of the legislative session in early 2027.
Rep. Doug Owens, D-Millcreek, is particularly concerned about how data centers might affect local ecosystems. He highlighted the need to explore modern cooling techniques and methods to minimize water usage. “It’s crucial we gather information about these impacts,” he said.
Although the committee did not explicitly mention the Stratos Project Area, they discussed the controversy surrounding a massive development in Box Elder County. This project, backed by Canadian entrepreneur Kevin O’Leary, covers around 40,000 acres and could require up to 9 gigawatts of power. Supporters claim it could strengthen U.S. national security by improving artificial intelligence capabilities.
However, critics worry about the environmental effects, especially during a time when Utah is experiencing severe droughts. For example, a recent Gallup survey found that most Americans oppose local AI data centers due to their potential heavy water consumption.
The committee’s push for independent research aligns with comments made by Utah House Speaker Mike Schultz, who supports studying the water impacts of such developments. His own ranching property is near the proposed site, and he expressed the need for facts on how data centers operate.
Similar sentiments were echoed by State Sen. Scott Sandall, R-Tremonton, who also favors investigating water consumption specifics.
While the Stratos initiative is under the microscope, many smaller data centers are already in operation across Utah, with more in the pipeline for Iron and Juab counties. Rep. Carl Albrecht, R-Richfield, emphasized the importance of a thorough study, stating, “It affects the whole state, and we need to take a good look at it.”
As the study advances, Utah has implemented a new law requiring large data center operators to report on their water usage and sustainability practices regularly. This initiative demonstrates a growing awareness of the balance needed between technological development and environmental conservation.
For more on the implications of data centers, check out this report from the U.S. Department of Energy.
Source link
utah data centers, environmental impact study, artificial intelligence infrastructure, kevin o
