BC Greens say public must have a say whether AI data centres get built
On October 11, 2026, BC Greens Leader Emily Lowan expressed her disappointment with NDP policies regarding AI data centres in British Columbia, stating that the current measures fall short of her party's expectations. Lowan believes that the public should have a say in the approval process of these data centres.
The NDP, led by David Eby, has proposed several policies for AI data centres, such as water-efficiency standards, mandatory reporting of water consumption, and community engagement on conservation and drought planning. However, Lowan has questioned whether the NDP would grant communities a veto on construction projects.
The Greens have previously pledged to halt the construction and operation of AI data centres until a comprehensive public-interest audit is completed and a regulatory regime is implemented. They have also expressed interest in collaborating with the federal government to establish an independent AI oversight commission.
In May, Telus and federal AI Minister Evan Solomon announced three AI data centres in B.C., with Telus estimating that they would consume 150 megawatts of power by 2032. This power equivalent to 12-14% of the Site C dam's output, which was built in northeast B.C.
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