"We pissed off a lot of people": Giant data center plan cut 50% amid protests

A massive data center project in Utah, initially planned to be nearly three times the size of Manhattan, has been cut by 50% due to intense public backlash. Residents of Box Elder County were primarily concerned about the project's potential to drain local water resources, particularly the vulnerable Great Salt Lake. Over 1,900 acre-feet of water transfer to the data center was opposed, with additional concerns raised about rising electricity bills, air quality, wildlife, and land impact.

Kevin O'Leary, a venture capitalist and the project's chair, admitted to mismanaging public relations, stating, "We really screwed it up." He expressed surprise at the public's strong opposition, having initially assumed local excitement for the investment. This led him to take personal charge of all future communications, promising complete transparency regarding permits and environmental impact.

Utah Senate President Stuart Adams had urged a 75% reduction in the project's scope. O'Leary, initially planning for 40,000 acres, reduced the project to 20,000 acres, with 10,000 acres remaining undeveloped. This effectively reduces the developed area to 25% of the original plan. Adams praised the compromise as a potential model for responsible data center development in the U.S., emphasizing the need for written commitments and thorough environmental reviews.

However, some residents remain skeptical. Brenna Williams, a community member, called the agreement "excellent performance art," suggesting the area is unsuitable for such a large data center due to water constraints. The Salt Lake Tribune's editorial board also warned that the "stench attached to the rushed and secret political process will take a very long time to dissipate." These sentiments highlight a lingering distrust and doubt about the project's long-term implications and O'Leary's renewed promises of transparency.