An Edmonton-area county has expressed its support for Meta's planned $13 billion data centre, as new details emerge about the water and electricity infrastructure required for the project. The facility, announced on July 8, 2026, would be Meta's first data centre in Canada.
County Officials Express Support
Sturgeon County, located directly north of Edmonton, released a statement calling the project 'welcome' news for the region. The county's reeve emphasized that the development aligns with local economic diversification goals and could bring hundreds of construction jobs and dozens of permanent positions.
'This is a significant investment that will have lasting benefits for our community,' the reeve said in a prepared statement, according to The Canadian Press.
Water and Power Requirements Unveiled
Meta has outlined substantial resource needs for the data centre. The facility is expected to require approximately 500,000 cubic metres of water annually for cooling purposes, sourced from local municipal supplies. Power demand is projected at 300 megawatts, which would be supplied by Alberta's grid, with potential for future renewable energy agreements.
A Meta spokesperson confirmed that the company is working closely with Alberta Utilities and the county to secure the necessary permits and infrastructure upgrades. 'We are committed to responsible resource use and are exploring innovative cooling technologies to minimize our environmental footprint,' the spokesperson said.
Economic Impact and Timeline
The $13 billion investment represents one of the largest private-sector projects in Alberta's history. Construction is expected to create up to 1,000 jobs during the peak building phase, with 100 permanent operational roles once completed. The data centre is slated to begin operations in 2029.
Alberta's Minister of Technology and Innovation called the project a 'vote of confidence' in the province's energy grid and business environment. 'This positions Alberta as a leader in the digital economy,' the minister stated.
Logistical Challenges and Community Response
Local infrastructure will require upgrades to handle increased water and power loads. Sturgeon County plans to invest in pipeline and substation improvements, partly funded through development levies from Meta. Environmental groups have raised concerns about water usage in a region prone to drought, but Meta has committed to a water conservation plan that includes recycling and alternative cooling methods.
The announcement has been met with cautious optimism from residents, who see it as an opportunity for economic growth. 'We need jobs and investment, but we also need to protect our water resources,' said a local community leader.
