Canada sets new expectations for data centre projects
Canada data centre framework sets AI project expectations for local benefits See how new federal principles aim to cut costs, protect resources and guide growth
The federal government has released a new framework outlining expectations for responsible data centre development in Canada, as concerns grow over the infrastructure needed to support artificial intelligence.
AI Minister Evan Solomon said the principles are meant to give communities, provinces, territories and municipalities a clearer picture of what responsible projects should look like. The framework does not create a new federal approval process or replace local authority.
The five expectations call for projects to create local benefits, avoid shifting electricity costs to Canadians, reduce water use and environmental impacts, be transparent about local effects, and provide strategic value to Canada. Major technology and cloud companies, including Amazon Web Services, Meta, Microsoft, OpenAI and Telus, are listed as supporters.
The announcement comes as governments across Canada face public concern over data centres, with debates focused on electricity demand, environmental impact and community costs.