Capital Power CEO stresses community input as Alberta data centres expand
A recent poll showing mixed Canadian attitudes toward data centres has prompted the head of electricity generator Capital Power Corp. to call for stronger local engagement.
Why it matters
As data centres draw heavily on Alberta's power grid, how well companies engage nearby communities could shape local support for the province's growing tech-driven energy demand.
The chief executive of Capital Power Corp., an Alberta-based electricity generator, says a recent poll reflecting mixed public attitudes toward data centres underscores the need for thorough engagement with communities where such facilities are built.
Data centres, which require large and steady supplies of electricity, are expanding rapidly in Alberta as demand grows for computing power tied to artificial intelligence and cloud services. Capital Power's leadership says this growth makes it important for companies and utilities to work closely with residents near proposed sites.
The CEO's comments come as public opinion on data centres remains divided, according to the poll cited, with Canadians expressing a range of views on the facilities' benefits and drawbacks for their communities.
Compiled by the Alberta Daily Desk — an AI-written summary of reporting from the credited sources below, produced and reviewed under our editorial policy.