Billionaire-Backed AI Data Center Moves Forward in Utah, Sparking Protests

Box Elder County commissioners unanimously approved moving forward with Kevin O’Leary’s Stratos data center, a sprawling AI-focused project that critics say could double Utah’s electricity use, strain water supplies from the Great Salt Lake, and significantly raise carbon emissions. Hundreds protested the plan, arguing the deal is shrouded in secrecy and will harm residents, while supporters point to on-site gas power, potential economic benefits, and claimed sustainability measures. The decision underscores growing tension over large-scale data centers and their environmental and public-cost implications in Utah.