Data Centers threaten southern Utah, too
A proposed 640-acre data center in Iron County is drawing growing attention and concern from southern Utah residents, The project, proposed by Pronghorn Development, would be built in unincorporated territory near Cedar City and remains in the planning phase. According to a recent report from ABC4, the proposal has already prompted discussions about potential zoning changes that could allow not only this project, but future data centers in the area.
During a recent Iron County Planning Commission meeting, officials discussed potential mitigation measures and whether the project would comply with county ordinance standards. Commissioners emphasized that any proposal would need to meet existing requirements before moving forward.
No decisions were made at the meeting, and public comment was not taken. The proposal highlights growing concerns about irresponsible planning. Utah is far too water-stressed to consider large-scale data centers.
Dr. Brian Moench told ABC4 that these data centers would exacerbate water stress. He asks under our drought conditions why we would consider such water intensive development, and addresses misinformation about job creation, saying these are short term boosts for long-term impacts.
Previous op-ed from UPHE about AI Data Centers in Utah ↓