Key facts
- Kevin O'Leary agreed to reduce the proposed Stratos data center project in Utah by nearly half.
- The project size was cut from 40,000 acres to approximately 20,570 acres.
- The reduction addresses concerns about water use, energy consumption, and environmental impact.
- Utah Senate President J. Stuart Adams had requested a 75% cut to the project.
- No permits have yet been issued for the project.
Business mogul Kevin O'Leary has agreed to significantly scale back his proposed Stratos data center project in Box Elder County, Utah, following pressure from state lawmakers. The project, initially planned for 40,000 acres, will be reduced by nearly half, with O'Leary pledging to remove 19,430 acres, particularly around the Locomotive Springs Waterfowl Management Area. This concession aims to address community concerns regarding the project's substantial water and energy requirements, as well as its environmental footprint. The initial proposal had an expected energy demand of 7.5 to 9 gigawatts, making it one of the largest data center projects in the United States. Utah Senate President J. Stuart Adams had sought a 75% reduction in the project's size. Adams stated that O'Leary agreed to all conditions in his demand letter, including dedicating new water resources to the Great Salt Lake. Despite this agreement, the project still faces a comprehensive review process, and no approvals or permits have been issued.