The City of Saint John is set to welcome its first potential business in the newly expanded area of the Spruce Lake Industrial Park. However, concerns have arisen among local residents regarding the environmental impact of the proposed project. Beacon AI Centers, based in Calgary, and VoltaGrid from Texas, are planning to construct a data center on a 120-hectare plot within the industrial park.
Data centers serve as hosts for large computer systems that store vast amounts of data for various entities, including businesses, governments, and run websites, applications, and services like video streaming and AI search engines. Councillor Greg Norton expressed enthusiasm for the proposal following the recent rezoning of the land in July after extensive public debate and meetings.
Norton highlighted the potential economic benefits, with the companies projected to invest over $2 billion in the facility, leading to increased tax revenue, job creation, and growth opportunities. The plan includes public consultations and an environmental impact assessment to address any concerns raised by the community.
Beacon and VoltaGrid intend to engage with residents at an open house on November 5 at the Lorneville Community Centre, reassuring them about measures to mitigate potential impacts. The companies have outlined plans for noise reduction and control systems, encompassing heating, cooling, noise management, and fire suppression within the facility.
Local resident Adam Wilkins voiced opposition to the development, citing concerns about the environmental repercussions and the proximity of the data center to residential areas. Wilkins, along with other community members, has taken legal action against the rezoning decision and expressed worries about water safety and the project’s location.
VoltaGrid will provide the necessary power supply for the data center, including a 190 MW natural gas-fired power-generating system on-site. Measures to source water from alternative locations such as the Bay of Fundy are being considered to alleviate strain on the municipal water supply.
Despite concerns raised, Norton emphasized the importance of conducting an environmental impact assessment before proceeding with the project. He reiterated the companies’ commitment to addressing community concerns and facilitating transparent communication throughout the process.
Both Beacon AI Centers and VoltaGrid are scheduled to meet with the Saint John council privately on November 4. Pending approval, the data center aims to commence operations in early 2028.