Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): Alberta has secured one of the biggest private-sector investments in Canada’s history after technology giant Meta announced plans to establish its first Canadian data centre in the province. Valued at more than $13 billion, the project is expected to create thousands of jobs, strengthen Alberta’s position in the artificial intelligence sector, and generate substantial long-term revenue for the provincial government.
The proposed facility will be built in Sturgeon County and is projected to create over 3,000 construction jobs during development, along with around 300 permanent operational positions once the campus becomes functional. Provincial estimates suggest the project will contribute nearly $250 million annually through royalties, taxes, levies and other government revenues.
Alongside the data centre, Meta has committed approximately $60 million towards improving local infrastructure, including road networks and water-related facilities in the surrounding region.
Premier Danielle Smith described the investment as a significant milestone for Alberta’s technology ambitions, stating that the province has developed policies aimed at attracting global AI companies while safeguarding public interests. According to the government, the project reflects Alberta’s strategy of encouraging innovation without placing additional burdens on taxpayers or the provincial power grid.
A key feature of the project is Alberta’s “bring your own power” policy for large data centres. Rather than depending entirely on the provincial electricity system, Meta will combine grid access with newly developed on-site natural gas generation facilities. Officials believe this approach will improve electricity reliability while helping reduce transmission costs for consumers.
The province says the associated power infrastructure, being developed in partnership with the recently announced Project Greenlight energy initiative, could lower electricity transmission charges for Albertans by up to six per cent.
The government also emphasised that environmental safeguards have been incorporated into the project. The data centre will use a closed-loop liquid cooling system with dry cooling technology, eliminating the need for water in routine cooling operations. Water usage at the facility will be restricted to domestic purposes, equipment maintenance and fire protection, subject to approvals under Alberta’s Water Act.
Meta officials said Alberta was selected because of its access to reliable infrastructure, energy availability, skilled workforce and supportive investment climate. The company added that it looks forward to building long-term partnerships with local communities while contributing to economic development.
Provincial ministers noted that Alberta’s regulatory framework for AI infrastructure has been specifically designed to attract global investment by requiring companies to finance their own energy generation and supporting infrastructure. Officials say this model ensures that large industrial projects do not transfer costs to residential consumers.
Local leaders also welcomed the announcement, describing the project as a major boost for employment, municipal revenues and long-term regional development. The data centre will be located within Alberta’s Industrial Heartland, an area designated for industrial projects rather than agricultural or residential use.
With the investment, Alberta aims to strengthen its position as a North American hub for artificial intelligence infrastructure while continuing efforts to attract additional international technology companies to the province.
