A modern backbone of technology

Data centres are specialized facilities that house computer systems and their components, including servers, storage systems, and telecommunications equipment. These facilities are vital for managing, storing, and processing the vast amounts of data that underpin our modern life and economy. Whether it’s streaming a movie, conducting an online meeting, posting on social media or completing a credit card transaction, the operations are supported by data centres.

Although data centres might resemble ordinary industrial warehouses from the outside, they are highly specialized inside, featuring robust cooling systems, extensive security measures, and cutting-edge infrastructure. There are different types of data centres, with hyperscale facilities—those designed to support the massive processing and data storage requirements for tech companies like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft—being the fastest-growing category. Alberta currently hosts 22 data centres, most near Calgary and Edmonton, and they serve critical roles in facilitating the cloud storage and artificial intelligence computing we now use in our lives every day.

Parkland County is the ideal home for Data Centres

Parkland County offers an unparalleled blend of resources and advantages for data centre developments, making it a strategic choice for investors:

  1. Cold climate: Northern Alberta’s naturally cool weather significantly reduces cooling costs, a major operational expense for data centres.
  2. Energy accessibility and world class infrastructure: Our world class energy sector, abundant resources and robust infrastructure – including substations and high-voltage transmission lines capable of supporting large-scale electrical loads – makes Parkland County an attractive location for hyperscale data centre operation.
  3. Strategic location: Key location in the Edmonton Metropolitan Region and its connectivity ensures efficient access to urban amenities, skilled labour, logistical networks, and an international airport.
  4. Business-friendly environment: Alberta's low-cost, entrepreneurial business environment and competitive electricity market are ideal for large-scale investments.

These factors create an environment conducive to the success of high-tech infrastructure projects, positioning Parkland County as a leader in fostering digital innovation.

Positive impacts of Data Centres on Parkland County

Data centres bring substantial benefits to the communities where they operate, including:

  • Economic Growth: These projects create well-paying construction and operational jobs while stimulating local industries like manufacturing, electrical services, landscaping and professional services.
  • Enhanced Infrastructure: Data centres often attract further investment in crucial infrastructure that benefits the surrounding communities, including fibre optic connectivity, energy production, water systems and telecommunications.
  • Increased Tax Revenue: Capital-intensive developments like data centres generate significant tax contributions. These contributions can provide a major funding source for critical local public services, from roads and infrastructure to community programs and recreation.
  • Community Development: The presence of a data centre often attracts complementary businesses, spurring further innovation and diversifying and enhancing the local economy.

Regulatory rigour

Every data centre built in Alberta must comply with a robust framework of federal, provincial, and municipal regulations. These cover a wide range of considerations, including land use, environmental impact, building safety codes, power infrastructure, and occupational health and safety.

For example, data centres must receive Alberta Electrical System Operator (AESO) approvals to ensure these projects do not strain the power grid.

In addition to AESO approval, dependant of the scope of their project data centres may also require approval from key authorities, including:

Provincial:

  • The Alberta Government
  • Alberta’s Building Code and Fire Safety Code
  • Alberta’s Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act and Alberta OHS Code
  • Alberta Transporation and Economic Corridors (ATEC)
  • The Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) and Power Generators
  • The Alberta Environmental Protection and Enhancement Areas (AEPA)

Federal:

  • Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA) and other Privacy Regulations

Municipal:

  • Parkland County (Land Use Bylaws, Area Structure Plans and Municipal Development Plans)

Utility companies, power generators and telecommunications providers also play an integral role in the approval and operation of these facilities.

By adhering to these rigorous standards and prioritizing community integration, data centres represent a responsible and forward-looking investment that may enhance Parkland County’s technological infrastructure, support our local economies, and contribute to a sustainable and prosperous future.

Environmental considerations

Modern data centres employ highly efficient cooling and power systems, significantly reducing water and energy consumption. Comprehensive environmental impact assessments are conducted for every project to ensure minimal ecological disruption.

Data centre facilities are built within buffer zones away from residential areas and incorporate landscaping and architectural features – including exterior design techniques, materials and colours - to integrate into the existing surroundings.

Prioritizing peace of mind

Modern data centres prioritize community safety, privacy and noise reduction. Advanced acoustic technology, including sound attenuators and acoustic monitors, ensures operations are quiet and unobtrusive.

State-of-the-art security systems and comprehensive emergency response protocols are implemented to safeguard nearby residents and businesses. Strict adherence to privacy regulations, such as the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA), ensures the highest standards of data security.

Building the future in Parkland County

Parkland County is primed to welcome responsible data centre projects that align with our Council’s vision for strategic economic diversification alongside respect for the environment and agriculture within the county. We’re proud to welcome developments to the county that will strengthen the local economy, enhance infrastructure, and establish the county as a hub for technological advancement, all while maintaining our community's quality of life and environmental integrity.

With all these advantages, Parkland County is a great location to explore. Let’s get started.  

Contact us
Email: Economicdiversification@parklandcounty.com 

Call: 780-968-8888