NDP calls UCP's AI data centre town halls 'last-minute' and disingenuous
The dispute comes as the province plans public consultations on data centre development, with the government's own sessions set to begin next month.
Why it matters
The debate over how AI data centre projects are approved could shape both provincial energy policy and public trust in government consultation processes.
Alberta's Opposition NDP has criticized the provincial government's plan to hold public town halls on AI data centres, calling the sessions "last-minute, disingenuous" attempts at consultation. The government announced Thursday it will hold three in-person town halls and one virtual session, including an in-person event in Grande Prairie on Sept. 11.
NDP Shadow Minister for Technology and Innovation Nathan Ip said in a statement that Premier Danielle Smith has already committed to AI data centres proceeding regardless of public input, accusing the government of setting up a "concierge service for foreign billionaires" and approving projects before consulting Albertans.
The NDP said it is running its own AI Data Centre Consultation Tour, having already held a town hall in St. Albert this week that drew 200 attendees. The party has two more sessions scheduled: one in Red Deer on Aug. 12 and a virtual event on Aug. 19, with plans to add further dates.
Compiled by the Alberta Daily Desk — an AI-written summary of reporting from the credited sources below, produced and reviewed under our editorial policy.