Data centre open house set for Oct. 7 in Parkland County

PARKLAND COUNTY -- Parkland County residents are invited to take part in an open house on Oct. 7 to share input and learn more about a major AI data centre proposed for TransAlta's Keephills site.

The open house is being hosted by BGRE, on behalf of Brookfield and CPP Investments, to present an overall development concept for the large-scale AI and digital infrastructure project. The project, known as the "Boreal Technology Hub", is proposed to have an initial power allocation of 230 MW. Over time, that allocation is expected to expand, allowing the project to support additional cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and digital infrastructure at the site.

In September 2025, Parkland County approved the recommended changes to its Highvale End Land Use Area Structure Plan and Land Use Bylaw, which amended the existing Keephills Direct Control District and created a new DC district. This gives Parkland County Council the ability to regulate development in the amended areas and allows for potential data centre development in the future. Despite this, County Council will have the final say as to whether or not the controversial project is eventually approved.

"The applicant is required to provide a 'What We Heard' report as part of the development process, and that will help inform the county's review process," said Rod Shagiec, Mayor of Parkland County. "We're encouraging all interested residents to participate in the open house, which will be held on October 7th, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Keephills Community Hall."

With a slew of AI data centres proposed across the province, many residents have expressed their opposition, stating concerns relating to energy consumption, environmental impacts, and more. At Parkland County's regular council meeting on Sept. 22, multiple residents spoke during public commentary to express their desire to see the county implement a one-year moratorium on data centre development.

"Hyperscale data centre projects neither fit the framework laid out by the federal government, nor do they offer local residents enough return for the costs that we will pay in higher insurance rates, higher power and heating costs, home equity loss, and higher healthcare needs," said local resident Tammy Leigh. "Two papers written by industry experts revealed that AI loads are breaking gas turbine shafts."

Another resident echoed the concerns regarding a lack of return for the community, stating that AI data centres do not provide long-term employment and negatively impact the health and wellness of residents and wildlife.