One big thing

Utah is proving that massive data centers don’t have to drain scarce water resources.

As artificial intelligence accelerates, so does demand for data centers—and the power and cooling systems to run them. In Millard County, the world’s largest data center campus—the GigaSite—is under construction. But in a state facing a two-decade drought, engineers faced a pressing question: how do you cool without consuming precious water?

The breakthrough

Integra Mission Critical is designing the GigaSite’s data centers to run completely waterless.

“We purposely designed them to be waterless. So literally your home, typical residential house will use more water than a large data center,” said John Kolar, Principal at Integra Mission Critical.

By relying on dry cooling systems and simplified, more efficient designs, the GigaSite eliminates one of the biggest environmental criticisms of large-scale data centers.

Why it matters

Water use is a major barrier for data center expansion nationwide. Traditional designs consume vast amounts, straining local supplies. Utah’s waterless model changes that equation.

• AI-ready infrastructure: Cooling without water reduces environmental impact and keeps Utah competitive in the AI race.
• Geographic advantage: Cooler climates and available power make Delta an ideal hub for high-demand workloads.
• Sustainability by design: Modular, factory-built equipment reduces construction waste and energy needs over time.

The local impact

While the GigaSite won’t employ thousands, it will bring high-value jobs and tax base growth—without burdening local water systems.

The bigger picture

Utah is carving out a leadership role in sustainable AI infrastructure. By solving the water challenge, it positions itself as a blueprint for desert regions worldwide.

Bottom line

AI’s future will run on data centers—and Utah just proved you can build them smarter.