Wyoming creates framework to attract AI data centers
Gov. Mark Gordon signed an order creating a framework for large-scale data centers, directing agencies to address water, environmental, workforce and residential electricity protections.
Governor Mark Gordon signed Executive Order 2026-03, titled Data Centers the Wyoming Way, establishing a framework for large-scale data centers and advanced computing facilities in Wyoming. The order was published Wednesday and directs state agencies to support and oversee these projects.
The directive assigns executive branch agencies responsibility for permitting, reviewing, regulating, supporting and facilitating data center development across the state. It specifies that it applies to agencies involved in permitting, reviewing, regulating, supporting or facilitating large-scale data center projects within Wyoming.
The framework sets expectations for coordinating permits and reviews among state agencies and calls for engagement with local communities and utility providers. It highlights conserving water, limiting environmental impacts at project sites, developing a workforce pipeline for advanced computing jobs, and protecting residential electricity customers from sharp rate increases tied to new industrial loads.
The order was issued one day after the White House released its own executive order on advanced artificial intelligence and national security. National investment in AI-related infrastructure has grown, with several major technology firms expected to spend more than $650 billion on AI and data center infrastructure this year.
Berkshire Hathaway increased its stake in Alphabet recently, reflecting broader corporate interest in AI. At the same time, some companies that began in crypto mining have moved into data center hosting and high-performance computing after the 2024 Bitcoin halving.
CleanSpark expanded in Wyoming in 2024 by acquiring a mining facility tied to about 75 megawatts of power capacity. Other firms including IREN, MARA Holdings, Cipher Digital, Hut 8, HIVE Digital and TeraWulf have pursued AI and data center opportunities alongside mining operations. Market analysts have begun coverage of some of those firms in reports on emerging AI infrastructure.
State officials described the executive order as a tool to prepare Wyoming for higher demand for large-scale computing while aiming to protect local resources and the electricity costs of residential customers.
The order does not set specific project approvals or a timetable in the text published Wednesday. Agencies now have direction to coordinate permitting, address environmental and water use concerns, plan workforce development, and consult with communities and utilities as data center projects move forward.
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