Nova Scotia's Data Centre Dilemma

Hundreds of Nova Scotians gathered in rain-slicked cities across the province on Saturday to protest the construction of AI data centres, as CBC News first reported. The largest demonstration took place in Halifax at Province House, with additional rallies held in Kentville, Port Hawkesbury, and Truro.

The protests are driven by EverWind Fuels' intention to begin the first phase of a data centre project in Point Tupper by next year. The facility is designed to support Claude, the chatbot developed by American AI firm Anthropic. Protesters expressed concerns regarding the consumption of fresh water and electricity, while Sadie Beaton, a protester in Kentville, raised issues regarding Mi'kmaw consent and the Peace and Friendship Treaties.

EverWind Fuels' director of engagement, Mark Stewart, stated during public meetings in D'Escousse and Lower River Inhabitants that the company aims to develop projects responsibly and in accordance with provincial and federal guidelines. EverWind currently plans to utilize the provincial energy grid for power until it can construct onshore wind farms, for which it has already received approvals.

While Port Hawkesbury organizer Benjamin Lauzon has called on Premier Tim Houston to convene an emergency legislative session to debate the project, the provincial government has maintained a different stance. In a statement reported by CBC News, the province noted that while it expects public concern, Nova Scotians should remain open-minded regarding a potential $10-billion investment. The government asserted that any data centre must meet or exceed guidelines to protect power rates, capacity, the environment, and water.