Opinion: To Win the AI Race, We Need Energy. Utah’s Leaders Are Finding a Balance

By Rep. Jill Koford

Guest Opinion, Deseret News
Published March 30, 2026

Artificial intelligence is rapidly increasing demand for computing power — and that computing power requires a reliable and abundant energy supply. In this guest opinion, Rep. Jill Koford discusses the importance of expanding Utah’s energy infrastructure while protecting communities, taxpayers and the state’s natural resources.

Koford highlights the connection between energy, economic growth and national security, noting that the United States’ ability to compete in artificial intelligence depends in part on having enough energy to power the technology and infrastructure behind it.

The article highlights Utah’s efforts to expand its energy supply and modernize permitting, including Gov. Spencer Cox’s Operation Gigawatt initiative and legislation such as HB85 and HCR05. Koford also points to HB76, which requires large data centers to report their water use and provides greater transparency as Utah considers the impacts of continued data center development.

Koford argues that Utah’s approach is focused on finding a balance between encouraging innovation and economic growth while maintaining transparency and responsible stewardship of the state’s resources.

“The energy needed to power this future should not come at the expense of communities or taxpayers, and Utah is focused on getting that balance right.”

The article also discusses the role of federal permitting reform and Utah’s congressional delegation in supporting additional energy development and infrastructure.

Read the full opinion at Deseret News:
Opinion: To Win the AI Race, We Need Energy. Utah’s Leaders Are Finding a Balance

Originally published by Deseret News on March 30, 2026. Written by Rep. Jill Koford, who represents District 10 in the Utah House of Representatives.