Utah AI Hub Faces Big Debate Over Environment

Kevin O’Leary says he is the only data‑center builder who studied environmental science. He argues that criticism of his Utah AI project is too harsh, even though people worry about gas use, water needs and local wildlife. The project will cover 40, 000 acres in Box Elder County and could use up to 9 gigawatts of power. O’Leary says the plan includes new cooling methods, better batteries and renewable energy to keep it green. He posted a video on X where he says the worries about air, water and heat are real but still manageable.He also calls some critics “outsiders” and claims that a lot of the online backlash is made by AI itself. He thinks this shows double standards from those who oppose it. Last month, a military official said the power would come entirely from natural gas. The same source noted that the extra capacity might help Utah in case of power shortages. Still, people are scared because Utah has a dry climate and the Great Salt Lake is shrinking. During a county meeting, many residents held signs that read “People before profits. ” They worry the project will hurt local resources. O’Leary’s plans in Utah and Alberta show a growing clash between AI growth and community concerns.