Meta’s Alberta Data Centre Boosts Province’s Appeal to Global Tech Giants

Meta’s planned C$13 billion ($9 billion) data centre in Alberta is strengthening the Canadian province’s appeal to major technology companies, Capital Power CEO Avik Dey said. The investment signals confidence in Alberta’s artificial intelligence strategy, with several US hyperscalers reportedly evaluating the province for large-scale data centre projects. Dey believes Alberta has the potential to become a multi-gigawatt data centre market.

Edmonton-based Capital Power is in talks with several companies to supply electricity to potential data centre projects. The company is promoting its Genesee Generating Station, southwest of Edmonton, as a potential site for large-scale facilities. Meta has partnered with Pembina Pipeline to develop a natural gas-fired power station for its Canadian data centre, while Capital Power will supply 250 megawatts until the project becomes operational in 2030. Alberta’s abundant natural gas, available land and cold climate are attracting hyperscalers seeking reliable, cost-efficient power.

Meanwhile, BCE recently announced plans to expand its Saskatchewan data centre project into a 1.2-gigawatt hub. Alberta is allowing developers to establish their own electricity sources to meet rising power demands. However, concerns remain over grid capacity, electricity costs and environmental impacts. A Pembina Institute report warned that data centres relying on the provincial grid before their dedicated power facilities become operational could strain supply and increase consumer costs. An Angus Reid poll in July found that 68% of Canadians opposed a large data centre near their homes.

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