WEDA Supports Governor Gordon’s Executive Order “Data Centers the Wyoming Way”

Thursday, June 4, 2026
CONTACT: 
Dawson Kluesner, External Affairs Director
Wyoming Association of Municipalities
Dawson@wyomuni.org 
307-640-9425

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WEDA Supports Governor Gordon’s Executive Order “Data Centers the Wyoming Way”

Cheyenne, WY. – The Wyoming Economic Development Association (WEDA) supports Executive Order 2026-03 signed by Governor Mark Gordon, titled “Data Centers the Wyoming Way.”

This executive order promotes the responsible development of data centers and other large-load facilities in a manner that reflects Wyoming values. Under this order, companies and investors should follow a Wyoming Data Center Development Framework that protects the state's natural resources, residents, and businesses.

“The need for data is higher than ever, and Wyoming is prepared to meet this demand,” says Ashley Harpstreith, WEDA Administrator. “Our state’s ample land, cool climate, and high levels of energy production provide a perfect environment that’s hard to find anywhere else. While data centers benefit local communities, they must be built responsibly. This executive order addresses the need to protect local municipalities and create a Wyoming future generations can be proud of.”

The order states that Wyoming is an energy-producing state with a business-friendly environment and reliable infrastructure. It is uniquely positioned to capitalize on data center opportunities and lead the United States into its technological future. However, Wyoming citizens have expressed legitimate concerns about the potential impacts of large-scale industrial and digital infrastructure development. This has led to the creation of the Wyoming Data Center Development Framework.

Eight factors comprise this new framework, as outlined by Governor Gordon. These include:

1. Water Sustainability – follow best practices that minimize water consumption and protect water quality.
2. Wildlife and Natural Resource Stewardship – balance economic growth with protecting wildlife and the state’s natural habitats. 
3. Transparency and Public Engagement – practice open communication with the public about any concerns related to development. 
4. Energy Leadership and National Security – pursue projects that protect Wyoming’s reputation as an energy producer and innovator. 
5. Grid Stewardship – protect residents and small businesses from bearing incremental utility costs. 
6. Revenue-Driven Economic Growth – attract projects that support economic development across the state. 
7. Responsible Workforce Growth – prioritize workforce development to prepare Wyoming residents for the jobs of the future. 
8. Community Investment – encourage developments that demonstrate a commitment to the communities.

Communities across Wyoming are being approached by developers interested in building data centers. While these developments offer significant economic opportunities, residents have raised concerns about environmental impacts, utility bills, and other potential implications from these structures.

“This executive order acknowledges the validity of resident concerns and calls on the executive branch and individual communities to work with companies that build data centers the Wyoming Way,” says Harpstreith. “It is designed to take advantage of this opportunity while protecting the natural resources, wildlife, towns, businesses, and citizens of Wyoming. This will allow the state to maximize the potential of data center investment while growing sustainably.”

WEDA will continue to work with municipalities across Wyoming to evaluate the viability and impact of data centers in their communities. It will offer support and share resources when it can to help projects move forward. WEDA celebrates the executive order and recognizes the opportunity data center investment presents, while also appreciating the need for a big-picture approach to economic development.

About WEDA

WEDA is a non-profit 501(c)6 professional association representing nearly 200 economic development members and organizations. Its mission is to foster economic development in Wyoming and is a partner of the Wyoming Business Council.

WEDA is the only association of its kind in Wyoming. It supports members with the necessary tools used to create, retain, and expand jobs, attract businesses, and develop a skilled workforce. WEDA offers professional development scholarships, training conferences, newsletters and publications, networking opportunities, and lobbying efforts.