Kevin O’Leary Addresses Misinformation on Utah Data Center Project

In a recent LinkedIn post, Kevin O’Leary addresses what he describes as significant misinformation surrounding a data center project in Utah. O’Leary, a prominent figure in business and investment, sought to clarify the project’s scope, environmental impact, and economic benefits, pushing back against claims of excessive energy consumption and environmental damage.

O’Leary stated that the narrative around the project has been distorted, particularly concerning its potential strain on local resources. He highlighted that the facility is being developed in phases and will initially operate independently of Utah’s main power grid.

“Claims that we’re going to consume all of Utah’s electricity, drain the Great Salt Lake, or immediately build the world’s largest facility simply aren’t true.”

He elaborated on the phased approach, explaining that the initial phase involves a 1.5 gigawatt facility. Crucially, this facility will be powered by its own generation infrastructure, not drawing from Utah’s existing grid. O’Leary further suggested that the project aims to eventually contribute power back to the local grid, potentially helping to stabilize energy costs for the region.

Economic and Employment Impact

Beyond environmental concerns, O’Leary emphasized the substantial economic advantages the project is expected to bring to Box Elder County and the wider Utah area. He detailed the job creation potential, both in the short term through construction and in the long term with engineering and support roles.

According to O’Leary, the project is projected to generate thousands of construction jobs and an equal or greater number of long-term positions. Furthermore, he anticipates significant tax revenue for Box Elder County over the next decade.

“This project would create thousands of construction jobs, thousands more long term engineering and support jobs, and major tax revenue for Box Elder County over the next decade.”

O’Leary also stressed that the project is adhering to all necessary regulatory and environmental review processes. He noted that the team is actively engaged in obtaining EPA approvals, water and air permits, ensuring noise compliance, and participating in public review sessions. This, he argued, demonstrates a commitment to responsible development.

Concerns Over Amplified Misinformation

A significant portion of O’Leary’s post focused on his concerns about the spread of misinformation, particularly regarding power development projects across the United States. He indicated that his team conducted audits and reviewed IRS filings, leading them to identify specific organizations that he claims are funded through networks connected to foreign interests.

Allegations of Foreign Influence

O’Leary pointed to organizations like Alliance for a Better Utah, suggesting they receive funding from networks linked to Arabella and foreign money connected to Chinese interests. He stated that this information has been shared with federal authorities.

“What concerns me most is how aggressively misinformation has been amplified around power development projects across America. After conducting audits and reviewing IRS filings, we found organizations like Alliance for a Better Utah receiving funding through networks connected to Arabella and foreign linked money tied to Chinese interests.”

He concluded by asserting the public’s right to factual information when making decisions about community development. O’Leary’s intervention aims to counter what he perceives as fear-based campaigns with factual data and transparent project details.