2nd potential AI data centre worries Saint John residents: ‘We have questions’

A second potential data centre is being proposed in Saint John, New Brunswick, raising concerns among residents who are already opposing another proposed centre near Lorneville. Data centres, used in artificial intelligence (AI) and other high-tech industries, require significant amounts of electricity for operation and cooling.

Lauren Smith, a resident and member of the local advocacy group Save Lorneville, expressed concern over how the new technology is outpacing government regulations. Smith, along with other advocates, questions the environmental impact, health concerns, and the ability of the power grid to support such large-scale projects. They also inquire about who will pay for the necessary infrastructure and whether subsidies will be provided.

The proposed project, from Cross River Infrastructure Partners, initially requests 50 megawatts of network-firm power, with potential future expansion. However, Opportunities New Brunswick, the provincial Crown corporation leading economic development, declined to comment on the proposal.

The City of Saint John received preliminary inquiries but has not provided updates on the matter. Smith argues that limited public dialogue leaves important questions unanswered, such as who will pay for the electrical grid expansion and the allocation of resources for such projects.

New Brunswick, along with other Canadian regions, is grappling with how to regulate AI data centres. Canada recently announced an AI strategy that includes plans for large-scale data centres. Nova Scotia's Premier Tim Houston has expressed openness to new data centres under certain conditions, while several municipalities in Ontario have considered moratoriums while studying potential regulations. Alberta has also seen opposition, with concerns over environmental risks, water usage, and energy costs.

Smith emphasizes the need for open dialogue and proper consultation from the New Brunswick government regarding potential projects, stating that the impact could extend beyond Lorneville and affect the entire province.