A Green Party politician is demanding the New Brunswick government reveal exactly how many artificial intelligence data centres are planned for the province, including right here in Saint John.

Green legislator Megan Mitton says the governing Liberals are pushing forward with data centre proposals before finalizing the policies needed to approve them. She wants the government to tell New Brunswickers which communities will face the impacts of these massive projects.

Saint John at the Center of the Debate

Saint John is already ground zero for this growing controversy. Regulators are currently reviewing a proposal to build a massive 390 megawatt data centre in the city. The situation escalated recently when a citizen advocacy group revealed a second data centre is also proposed for Saint John.

Critics warn these facilities consume massive amounts of electricity. This huge appetite for power will lead to higher electricity rates for your home and business. Opponents also point out the strain these projects place on local infrastructure and the surrounding environment.

Calls for a Moratorium

Mitton is calling for an immediate halt to all data centre development.

“They need to hit the brakes and put a moratorium in place,” Mitton said in a statement.

“We need legally enforceable legislation to protect New Brunswickers from the adverse health impacts and many other negative consequences of data centres before it’s too late.”

Political Divide Over Economic Benefits

Premier Susan Holt’s government defends the proposed plants. Officials state these projects boost the provincial economy by creating jobs and increasing tax revenue.

However, opposition comes from multiple political parties. Conservative MP John Williamson is also calling on the Holt government to reject the first Saint John data centre project. He warns the development will trigger electricity rate hikes for residents.

A provincial government spokesperson did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the issue, according to the original report by The Canadian Press.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main concern with the proposed data centres?

Critics argue the massive electricity requirements of AI data centres will strain the local power grid and lead to higher electricity rates for residents and businesses in New Brunswick.

How many data centres are proposed for Saint John?

There is currently one 390 megawatt data centre under regulatory review. A citizen advocacy group recently revealed a second data centre is also proposed for the city.

What is the provincial government’s stance on the projects?

Premier Susan Holt’s government supports the proposals, stating they will create jobs and generate increased tax revenue for the province.