AI Firms Propose Urgent Natural Gas Data Centre Near Winnipeg

URGENT UPDATE: Two artificial intelligence companies have just announced plans for a major data centre powered by natural gas turbines, set to be built south of Winnipeg. Las Vegas-based Jet.AI and Vancouver’s Consensus Core are eyeing a 141-hectare (350-acre) site near Ile-des-Chenes in the R.M. of Ritchot, aiming to revolutionize the local tech landscape.

This development is significant. If approved, the data centre will not only create well-paying jobs but also contribute to local electricity generation, reducing Manitoba’s reliance on imported power. “This proposal represents a business and technology win for Manitoba,” said Wayne Lloyd, CEO of Consensus Core, in a statement released earlier today.

The companies plan to build a natural gas-fired power generation plant with up to six turbines on the same campus. However, exact investment figures have not been disclosed, although sources indicate it will be substantial. The project is still in its preliminary stages, with Ritchot Mayor Chris Ewen noting that while inquiries have been made, no formal proposals have yet been submitted.

The site was previously intended for a cryptocurrency operation by Blockharvest Inc., which has since been embroiled in legal issues. Jet.AI states that the land is ideally located at a “unique confluence of abundant hydroelectric power and significant natural gas capacity,” making it a prime candidate for data centre development.

However, there are complications. Manitoba Hydro, responsible for the province’s power grid, has expressed unawareness of the project. Communications Director Scott Powell confirmed no requests to connect an AI data centre to the grid have been received, adding that the province recently enacted a moratorium on new cryptocurrency operations.

The provincial government is adopting a cautious approach to new energy-intensive projects, as indicated by Minister Adrien Sala. Preference will be given to data centres that maintain Canadian data sovereignty and offer significant economic benefits for Manitoba. Premier Wab Kinew reiterated this stance last month, emphasizing the need to assess each project individually.

Critics are raising concerns about the environmental impact of such an energy-intensive facility. Laura Cameron, a program director for Manitoba’s Climate Action Team, expressed skepticism over the benefits of a project that demands high electricity and water usage, questioning the job creation potential.

Currently, Manitoba hosts eight data centres, all small-scale, with none specializing in artificial intelligence. As the province transitions its energy strategy, balancing economic growth with sustainability will be crucial.

The next steps for Jet.AI and Consensus Core remain unclear. The local community and government engagement will play a critical role in determining the fate of this ambitious project. Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.