'Shark Tank' Celeb's Planned AI Data Center Ignites Public Furor in Utah

A plan to build a giant artificial intelligence (AI) data center has set off a loud outcry from the people of northern Utah. They argue the planned 40,000-acre center would destroy their state. The project is backed by a Shark Tank celebrity and investor called “Mr. Wonderful.” 

The proposed $100 billion “Stratos” project is to be built in Box Elder County. It’s one of dozens of planned AI centers facing major pushback in at least seven states. The Utah project would be one of the world’s largest data centers. It would be as big as two Manhattans.  

The language used in this fight goes beyond the level of normal complaints often heard in local zoning disputes. Critics speak in stark terms about how Stratos could cause the ecosystem around the Great Salt Lake to collapse. Meanwhile, Kevin O’Leary (aka Mr. Wonderful) has accused critics of being funded by China. He has not produced any evidence to support his claim. 

Supporters of AI data centers insist they are needed to keep up with the massive energy needed to run AI. And they argue the centers are needed to keep the US from falling behind other countries.  

Critics say Stratos would require 9 gigawatts of power. That's more power than the entire state uses. And they say the center will need about 16.6 billion gallons of water per year. Lots of water is needed to cool AI servers. But water is in short supply in the region.      

The Box Elder County Commission approved the project earlier this month. The vote was unanimous. But they had to hold their vote during a closed session. That's because its public meeting turned rowdy. The project still faces a series of steps before it can be approved. Meanwhile, critics are looking for ways to reverse the commission vote. They are pushing to hold a referendum vote.  

Brenna Williams told Utah News Dispatch: “No matter what, we need to keep fighting.”   

Reflect: Do you think building huge AI data centers is worth the impact they could have on the environment and local communities? Why or why not?

Photo of the Welcome to Utah sign from Wikimedia Commons.