Provo considers self-serve power plant to support growing data center demand

In a recent Provo City Planning Commission meeting held on February 26, 2025, discussions centered around a proposed self-serve power plant intended to support a new data center in the area. The meeting highlighted the growing demand for data centers and the challenges associated with providing adequate power and water resources.

The applicant, John Jensen, emphasized the necessity of the power plant, which is projected to generate 100 megawatts of electricity. This is significantly smaller than existing plants in nearby Payson and Vineyard, which produce 450 megawatts and 1.1 gigawatts, respectively. Jensen explained that the proposed facility would utilize natural gas and feature advanced emission controls that exceed EPA standards, aiming to mitigate environmental concerns.

A key point of discussion was the plant's design, which is intended to blend in with the local architecture, resembling typical commercial buildings rather than traditional power plants. This design aims to alleviate aesthetic concerns from the community. Additionally, the plant would employ a closed-loop water system using absorbers to manage heat, significantly reducing water consumption compared to conventional data centers.

Commissioners raised questions about the infrastructure needed for the project, particularly regarding natural gas supply and internet connectivity. Jensen assured that existing pipelines and Provo's robust connectivity would support the facility's needs without requiring significant upgrades.

The conversation also touched on the broader implications of the project for Provo. Jensen argued that without the power plant, the city risks losing potential investments and job opportunities associated with the data center. He noted that many cities are currently unable to accommodate data centers due to insufficient power and water resources, making Provo's situation particularly critical.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that while there are still unresolved issues regarding the connection to the power grid and community concerns, the proposed self-serve power plant represents a significant opportunity for Provo. The commission's decision will likely influence the city's ability to attract future investments in the tech sector, underscoring the importance of balancing development with environmental and community considerations.