Four AI data centre projects are in the works between Calgary and Edmonton
Alberta is quickly making its status as a tech hub known, with three new AI data centres proposed, and a fourth recently approved between Calgary and Edmonton.
American AI data centre developer Crusoe Energy has entered into a multi-year agreement with Kalina Distributed Power (KDP) to build multiple colocated AI data centres powered by natural gas, according to Alberta Major Projects.
Under the deal, Crusoe will develop, own, and operate the three proposed facilities while purchasing electricity from three KDP-owned gas-fired plants through 15-year Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs).
The projects have been proposed for:
- Myers Energy Park, Red Deer County (65 acres)
- Alsike Energy Park, Brazeau County (160 acres)
- Crossfield Energy Park, Rocky View County (320 acres)
Alberta Major Projects
These sites will need a great deal of power to operate, and all three were chosen for their proximity to critical infrastructure, including gas pipelines, electricity transmission, fibre optic lines, and carbon sequestration hubs. Each project has an estimated cost of $1 billion.
“Our team has worked closely with Crusoe to develop a commercial path forward to keep pace with AI data centre market demand while capitalizing on the unique characteristics of the Alberta market to deliver reliable, affordable natural gas-fired power configured with CO₂ capture and sequestration,” said Kalina managing director Ross MacLachlan in a press release.
Construction has not yet started on any of the three projects.
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In Red Deer County, a separate project by Havenz Smart Communities was recently approved for the Blindman Industrial Park.
The 120-acre site will feature a waterless, ultra-low-noise data centre with its own heat and power plant, along with a 10,800-square-foot modular facility and a 5,000-square-foot administration building. Once operational, the site is expected to employ five to seven people.
Late last year, Dragon’s Den investor Kevin O’Leary announced plans for a massive “Wonder Valley” AI data park in northern Alberta, while earlier this year, reports swirled that tech giant Meta was eyeing a site near Fort Saskatchewan for its own AI data centre.