Meta will invest more than $13 billion to build its first Canadian data center in Alberta, the provincial government announced Wednesday, calling it one of the largest private investments in Canada's history.
Project Details and Job Creation
The facility will be located in Sturgeon County near Edmonton, according to a government statement. The project is expected to create over 3,000 construction jobs and 300 permanent positions once operational.
The provincial government anticipates collecting approximately $250 million annually through royalties, taxes, levies, and fees linked to the project. Meta is also investing about $60 million in local infrastructure, including roads and water systems.
Energy and Infrastructure
A separate $4.6 billion natural gas power plant, backed by Pembina Pipeline Corporation, Morgan Stanley Infrastructure Partners, and Kineticor under the Project Greenlight initiative, is expected to reduce electricity transmission charges for Albertans by as much as 6%.
Official Statements
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said: "Artificial intelligence is transforming the global economy, and Alberta is making sure we lead rather than follow. We created the right conditions to attract world-leading investments while protecting the interests of Albertans. This project will create thousands of jobs, generate hundreds of millions of dollars in annual revenue, and make electricity more reliable and affordable."
Meta Vice President of Data Centre Strategy and Development Gary Demasi cited Alberta's "strong access to infrastructure and energy, talented workforce, and outstanding community partners" as key factors in choosing the site.
Regulatory Environment
Alberta's Technology and Innovation Minister Nate Glubish noted that the province mandates large data centers to "bring their own power" and comply with strict environmental and water rules, distinguishing it from other jurisdictions competing to attract AI investment.
