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Meta Begins Construction on CAD $13 Billion AI Data Center in Alberta
Summary
Meta has broken ground on its first Canadian data center in Sturgeon County, Alberta, a CAD $13 billion facility optimized for AI workloads. The project is expected to create thousands of construction jobs and over 300 permanent positions upon completion.
Meta Platforms announced on Wednesday that it has begun construction on a new data center in Sturgeon County, Alberta. The facility marks the company's first in Canada and its 33rd data center globally. The project represents an investment of more than CAD $13 billion and is designed to be a 1-gigawatt facility optimized for artificial intelligence workloads.
The development is expected to have a significant economic impact on the region. Meta estimates that approximately 3,000 construction workers will be on-site during peak construction. Once operational, the data center will support more than 300 permanent jobs. In addition to job creation, the company plans to invest approximately CAD $60 million in local infrastructure improvements, including roads and water systems.
As part of its local engagement, Meta will introduce its annual Data Center Community Action Grants program in the area. This initiative provides direct funding to support local nonprofit organizations and community projects.
AdMeta has also outlined its plans for the data center's energy and water consumption. The company stated it is fully funding new power generation and grid infrastructure to support the facility and will cover the full cost of its energy use. The data center's electricity consumption will be matched with 100% clean and renewable energy.
To conserve water, the facility will utilize a water-efficient, closed-loop liquid cooling system that incorporates dry cooling technology. According to the company, this design means there will be no operational water use for the cooling system. Water usage at the site will be limited to domestic needs, fire protection, and equipment maintenance.