Data centers on the way to Utah, but how fast and at what cost?
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Utah is set to triple its data center capacity in the next few years, driven by artificial intelligence and cloud computing demands. The growth raises concerns about power and water consumption, with the state facing an escalating risk of power shortages.
Utah is on track to triple its data center capacity in the next few years, with 48 operational data centers currently drawing 920 megawatts of power and an additional 2600 megawatts under construction. The growth is driven by the increasing demand for artificial intelligence and cloud computing. Data center development is concentrated along the Wasatch Front, with the state's 10 biggest data centers accounting for roughly 80% of total current capacity. The projects have raised concerns about power and water consumption, with AI-dedicated data centers using 8-10 times more power than traditional ones. Utah faces an escalating risk of power shortages, with the North American Electricity Reliability Corporation projecting elevated grid risk in 2031. The state has potential for enhanced geothermal power development, which could help address the power demand.
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