Why Utah’s massive new data center plan has drawn such a backlash

Published May 16, 2026 2:00pm ET



Despite growing resistance from residents and environmental advocates, Utah officials moved forward with plans for a massive data center project that is poised to be one of the largest in the country.

In the far northwestern corner of Utah, the Box Elder County Commission on May 4 approved a data center project dubbed “Stratos Project.” However, the project has since received major public pushback, with residents raising concerns over its environmental impacts on the area. 

Already a print subscriber? Click here to login/register your account

Trusted reporting.Unlimited access.

Subscribe for full access to Washington Examiner coverage, expert political analysis, and subscriber-only journalism.

Get Unlimited Access

Already a member? Log in

Cancel anytime.