Meta Platforms is investing 13 billion Canadian dollars (about USD 9.17 billion) to build its first artificial intelligence (AI)-optimised data centre in Canada, underscoring the intensifying global race among technology companies to expand AI computing infrastructure. The facility, located in Sturgeon County, Alberta, is expected to consume as much electricity as around 800,000 homes, highlighting the growing energy demands of large-scale AI development.
The project will begin with a capacity of one gigawatt and is designed to scale up to 1.8 gigawatts, making it one of Meta’s largest AI infrastructure investments globally. The company said the Alberta site is its 33rd data centre worldwide and its first in Canada.
Power And Sustainability
Meta said it will fund new electricity generation and grid infrastructure to support the project. Under a long-term agreement, Pembina Pipeline will supply power from a new natural gas-fired plant expected to begin operations in 2030, while Capital Power will provide interim electricity. The company also plans to match its electricity use through investments in renewable energy and deploy a closed-loop cooling system to minimise water consumption.
The investment aligns with Alberta’s strategy to attract hyperscale AI infrastructure by leveraging its abundant natural gas resources, cool climate and business-friendly policies. However, environmental groups have raised concerns over the project's reliance on fossil fuel-based power despite Meta’s renewable energy commitments.
The development reflects a broader industry trend as technology companies accelerate investments in AI infrastructure, with energy availability increasingly becoming a key factor in determining where future data centres are built. |
