Rocky Mountain Power advances Utah’s Operation Gigawatt through landmark energy agreement

SALT LAKE CITY — Today, Gov. Spencer Cox, legislative leadership and Rocky Mountain Power announced Utah’s first major energy agreement under the state’s landmark 2025 large-load legislation. The move marks a significant step forward for Operation Gigawatt and protects existing customers from additional costs. 

“Utah is committed to building an energy future that is reliable, affordable and abundant,” said Governor Spencer Cox. “Senate Bill 132 ensures that as advanced technologies expand in our state, they do so responsibly. Today’s agreement advances Operation Gigawatt, showing how thoughtful policy paired with private sector innovation will strengthen our grid, support major technology investment and ensure that Utah remains a national leader in pragmatic energy development.” 

Rocky Mountain Power was able to move from introductory conversations to delivering this large load request of firm power in under a year, showcasing the scale and speed at which the company can deliver when supported by practical regulations and customers who make firm, realistic commitments. 

“Energy drives the economy, and Utahns deserve energy that is reliable, affordable and built for the future,” said Utah Senate President J. Stuart Adams. “By expanding Utah’s energy capacity, we are strengthening the grid, powering innovation and supporting continued economic growth while keeping costs low for families and businesses. S.B. 132 shows that smart policy and private-sector collaboration can strengthen our energy system without raising costs for Utahns.” 
 
“Keeping power affordable and reliable for Utah families is non-negotiable,” said House Speaker Mike Schultz. “This agreement ensures that new, large energy users cover their own costs and help strengthen the grid without raising rates on existing customers. That’s good news for Utahns, for reliability, and for long-term stability.” 

Parties are expected to file with the Utah Public Service Commission by Feb. 10. The long-term agreement is projected to generate hundreds of millions of dollars in benefits for Rocky Mountain Power customers and the State of Utah. This includes fully covering costs of service by the data center customer. 

“For over 100 years, Rocky Mountain Power has delivered dependable, affordable energy to Utah families and businesses,” said Dick Garlish, president of Rocky Mountain Power. “This agreement reflects our continued commitment to customers, innovation and maintaining one of the nation’s most reliable grids. By advancing Operation Gigawatt, we’re facilitating responsible data center expansion, strengthening system resilience and ensuring Utah has the power it needs to fuel economic growth.”