Calgary’s $10 Billion AI Data Centre Project Set to Transform Alberta’s Tech Economy

Calgary is poised to become a major hub in the global AI infrastructure landscape with the announcement of a new $10 billion AI data centre project by Beacon AI Centers. This ambitious initiative underscores Alberta's growing prominence in the tech sector and its commitment to fostering innovation and economic diversification.

Beacon AI Centers' $10 Billion Investment

Beacon AI Centers, a Calgary-based firm, has unveiled plans to invest up to $10 billion in the construction of six hyperscale AI data centres across Alberta. The development will span over 2,000 acres, with strategically chosen sites around both Calgary and Edmonton. These facilities will be designed to accommodate next-generation AI and high-performance computing needs. To lead this initiative, Josh Schertzer, former CTO at Blackstone, has taken over as CEO. His expertise in large-scale infrastructure development is expected to ensure the success of the venture.

Strategic Location and Infrastructure

The locations selected offer:

• Access to abundant natural gas and energy infrastructure.

• Proximity to high-speed fiber-optic networks.

• Cooler northern climates, which reduce cooling costs and improve energy efficiency.

• Regulatory support under Alberta’s AI Data Centres Strategy announced in December 2024, aiming to draw $100 billion in private investment over five years.
  
  

Economic Impact and Job Creation

While exact employment numbers have not been finalized, similar projects in Alberta suggest 5,000 to 10,000 jobs could be created over the construction and operational phases. These roles will span:

• Construction and civil engineering

• Electrical and mechanical systems

• Data security and IT management

• AI systems and software development

• Ongoing facility operations and maintenance

This project is set to become one of the largest private tech investments in Canadian history and will greatly contribute to Alberta’s economic diversification efforts.

Target Companies and Tenants

Beacon AI Centers is aiming to attract:

• Cloud computing giants such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform.

• AI research labs like OpenAI, Anthropic, NVIDIA, and DeepMind.

• Enterprise AI users across energy, healthcare, logistics, and finance.

• Government and academic institutions focused on machine learning.

• Cybersecurity, blockchain, and VFX firms requiring high-capacity compute infrastructure.

The centers will be powered by low-emission energy and built with an emphasis on ESG compliance, appealing to companies with ambitious climate goals.

Timeline and Future Prospects

Construction is expected to roll out in phases beginning in late 2025, with full operational capacity between 2028 and 2030, depending on infrastructure timelines and permitting. Beacon AI Centers is already in early-stage discussions with potential anchor tenants and tech partners.

Conclusion

The Beacon AI Centers project represents more than just a massive financial investment — it is a bold statement about Alberta’s future as a global leader in artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure. As industries around the world race to unlock the full potential of AI, Calgary is positioning itself at the forefront of that transformation.

By attracting some of the world’s most influential tech firms and creating thousands of high-quality jobs, this initiative has the potential to reshape Alberta’s economy for generations. With the right execution, this $10 billion data centre project will not only serve as a beacon for AI innovation but also as a cornerstone of Western Canada’s tech renaissance.