Alberta to hold AI data centre town halls amid resident concerns

Alberta's technology minister, Nate Glubish, is initiating a series of town halls across the province to gather public input on the development of artificial intelligence data centers. The first session is scheduled for Lacombe, with further meetings planned in Sturgeon County and Grande Prairie.

These consultations come as Alberta actively seeks to attract AI investors, promoting the potential for significant economic benefits, including billions in royalties and taxes, according to Premier Danielle Smith. Smith also asserts that AI data centers will use limited water resources and could lower electricity transmission costs.

However, the push for AI infrastructure has ignited fierce opposition from some residents. Concerns center on the substantial water consumption, potential pollution, and the impact on electricity bills. Critics argue that the government's consultations are "disingenuous" as they occur after major project approvals and announcements.

Specific projects have faced significant pushback. In Sturgeon County, Meta's proposed $13 billion data center complex has drawn hundreds of protesters. The Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation has taken legal action, challenging the adequacy of consultation regarding a proposed water diversion for another AI industrial park near Grande Prairie.

Further complicating matters, the Alberta Utilities Commission recently denied an application for a natural gas facility intended to power a data center in Olds, citing its proximity to the community. Meanwhile, Rocky View County, a rural municipality bordering Calgary, has voted to pause new data center proposals as it develops applicable regulations.

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