Alberta premier fields data-centre questions as NDP urges pause
Premier Danielle Smith hosted a virtual town hall on AI data centres, while the NDP called for a moratorium until stricter rules are set.
In a virtual session, Premier Danielle Smith and three cabinet members addressed Albertan questions about artificial-intelligence data centres, stressing potential employment and fiscal benefits. Participants voiced worries about water use, especially regarding Meta’s $13-billion campus, and the impact on electricity rates, leading to a live poll where 57% backed setback measures. The town hall also covered reclamation plans for abandoned sites, with Technology Minister Nate Glubish saying the province would assume responsibility.
Shortly after, NDP leader Naheed Nenshi urged a moratorium until comprehensive impact studies and permanent-job guarantees are in place. The government plans a final town hall in Grande Prairie on Sept. 11, though Smith is not slated to attend.
Why it matters
Alberta's push for AI data centres could reshape the province's economy and environment, while opposition demands highlight governance gaps.
In this story
