The Utah Inland Port Authority passed a resolution on March 16 authorizing its executive director to enter into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the state’s Office of Energy Development. The partnership aims to facilitate the planning, designation, and implementation of electrical energy development zones across the state.
The resolution allows the two agencies to establish these energy zones within UIPA project areas or on other eligible lands. The zones operate under Utah Code (§ 79-6-1104, went into effect in May 2025) to manage regional energy resources and infrastructure.
Under the terms of the five-year agreement, the agencies will share responsibilities across several key areas. These duties include site identification and zone designation, infrastructure planning,county permitting, managing interlocal agreements and financial incentives. The agencies will also collaborate on stakeholder engagement and data reporting.
To oversee the implementation of the agreement, UIPA and the OED will form a joint working group consisting of representatives from both organizations.
“This partnership with the Office of Energy Development allows us to take a highly coordinated approach to Utah’s infrastructure needs,” said Ben Hart, executive director of the Utah Inland Port Authority. By working together to plan and implement these electrical energy development zones within our project areas, we can streamline the permitting process and ensure our state has the power resources necessary for sustainable, long-term economic success.”
To manage this service, UIPA will receive 2 percent of the ongoing annual tax differential revenue generated within each established energy zone.To manage this service, UIPA will receive 2 percent of the ongoing annual tax differential revenue generated within each established energy zone.
The agreement is set to remain in effect for five years, with options to extend in writing. Either party can terminate the agreement with a 90-day written notice. The resolution went into effect immediately upon passage.
Author: Nick Archambault
Date: March 16, 2026