Utah Leaders Are Hindering Efforts to Develop Solar Despite Energy Supply Goal
a day ago
- #renewable energy
- #Utah energy policy
- #solar power
- Utah Gov. Spencer Cox announced Operation Gigawatt to double energy production in a decade, adopting an 'any of the above' approach.
- Solar energy is the fastest-growing source in Utah, accounting for two-thirds of new projects awaiting grid connection.
- Cox signed bills making solar development more expensive by ending tax credits and imposing a generation tax.
- Legislative hostility towards solar contrasts with Cox's public support, causing industry concerns and project withdrawals.
- The shift mirrors federal trends under Trump, who reduced solar incentives, while Cox criticized a Nevada project cancellation.
- Utah's Republican lawmakers view solar as unreliable and landscape-disrupting, pushing anti-solar legislation successfully this year.
- Solar developers negotiated compromises but fear Utah's unpredictable policy may drive investments to friendlier states.
- Cox focuses on nuclear and geothermal under Operation Gigawatt, with plans for a small modular reactor hub.
- New solar taxes and restrictions threaten Utah's energy goals, risking slower deployment to meet rising demand.
- Rural concerns over solar displacing agriculture clash with benefits like lease revenue and diversified energy portfolios.