Kutak Rock partner Alex Jones recently authored “The Rise of Data Centers in Arkansas,” published in the Summer 2026 issue of The Arkansas Lawyer. The article examines the rapid growth of the hyperscale data center development in Arkansas and the legal and economic issues accompanying the industry’s expansion.

Alex explains that while data centers are not new to Arkansas, the unprecedented size and scope of proposed hyperscale projects are creating new considerations for businesses, communities and policymakers. He discusses the ongoing debate surrounding the facilities’ substantial electricity and resource demands, as well as their potential to generate significant capital investment, job growth and broader economic development throughout the state.

The article also highlights the increasingly important role Arkansas attorneys will play as data center development accelerates. Alex identifies a wide range of legal issues associated with these projects, including real estate transactions, land-use planning and permitting, utility and service contracts, environmental considerations, regulatory matters, litigation and emerging questions involving digital assets.

Looking ahead, Alex anticipates that data center development will help drive modernization of Arkansas energy infrastructure while creating new opportunities and challenges across numerous areas of legal practice. As he writes, the industry’s rapid growth will require policymakers, practitioners and the public to address familiar issues on an unprecedented scale.

Full article here.

This article was originally published in the Summer 2026 issue of The Arkansas Lawyer and is reprinted with permission.

Alex represents commercial and industrial clients in commercial litigation and arbitration. Alex develops and executes litigation strategy for new industries, including by asserting and protecting the constitutional rights of businesses and their owners. Alex helps data center and digital asset mining companies in navigating and complying with federal, state, and local regulatory obligations. Alex has served as lead counsel at trial, motions hearings, and appellate arguments.