Utah Governor Makes It Harder for Kevin O'Leary to Build Data Center
Business Insider • • nation
Key Points:
- Utah Gov. Spencer J. Cox has responded to public concerns about a large data center project backed by investor Kevin O'Leary by imposing new requirements, including phased approvals with a cap of 1.5 gigawatts for the first phase.
- Cox directed state environmental and natural resource agencies to review air quality permits and ensure water protection, insisting on the use of environmentally sensitive cooling systems for the project.
- The Stratos Project, approved by Box Elder County commissioners, has faced protests from residents worried about increased utility costs, noise, water strain, and overall quality of life impacts.
- Data centers have become contentious amid the AI boom, as tech companies seek new facilities while communities express concerns about environmental and social effects.
- Kevin O'Leary suggested opposition may be driven by "professional protesters" and misinformation, emphasizing the importance of public understanding of sustainability, water, air, and indigenous rights in such developments.
