New AI Data Centre Proposed Near Winnipeg

Post by : Mina Rahman

In an ambitious move, two artificial intelligence companies have announced plans for a large data centre south of Winnipeg, leveraging natural gas turbines to meet energy demands, prompting both intrigue and apprehension in Manitoba.

Las Vegas-based Jet.AI and Vancouver's Consensus Core have briefed potential investors about their intent to create an AI-centric data centre spanning approximately 141 hectares near Île-des-Chênes, situated in the Rural Municipality of Ritchot. This initiative includes a proposed on-site natural gas power plant with up to six turbines to cater to the facility’s substantial energy requirements.

While specific investment figures remain undisclosed, representatives from the companies have indicated that the financial commitment will be considerable. Consensus Core's CEO Wayne Lloyd suggested that the project could elevate Manitoba to a prominent position in the realm of advanced data infrastructure, while fostering regional economic growth.

Lloyd emphasized the goal of developing a “made-in-Manitoba” data facility that would generate high-paying jobs in technology and provide additional electricity for the provincial grid, potentially decreasing reliance on outside power sources. The company plans to collaborate closely with provincial officials and local communities as plans advance.

Consensus Core is renowned for its high-performance graphics processing unit (GPU) infrastructure tailored for AI applications, enabling remote access to computing resources. Jet.AI, originally focused on aviation software, has expanded its portfolio into the AI domain.

Jet.AI confirmed it has secured the Ritchot property, which was initially designated for a cryptocurrency mining project that never materialized. The site is deemed strategically beneficial due to its close proximity to hydroelectric resources and existing natural gas infrastructure.

However, both local and provincial officials stress that the project is still in the preliminary stages. Ritchot Mayor Chris Ewen verified that the municipality has only received initial inquiries, with no formal development proposal submitted. Manitoba Hydro has also stated that they have not been approached for grid connections related to this project.

Notably, this proposal comes at a time when Manitoba is enhancing its oversight of energy-intensive industries. The province has implemented a moratorium on new cryptocurrency connections to the Hydro grid in 2022, alongside legislation mandating stringent evaluations for large power users like data centres.

While Manitoba seeks to gradually lessen its reliance on natural gas, new gas turbines have been authorized in Brandon to strengthen capacity. Provincial authorities have indicated that they will evaluate future data centre proposals individually, focusing on those that promise substantial job creation and secure Canadian data control.

Environmental groups remain cautious about the implications. Climate advocates argue that large data centres consume enormous amounts of electricity and water while offering limited long-term employment opportunities. Critics contend that public resources should prioritize industries with undeniable benefits to the people of Manitoba.

Currently, the envisioned AI campus in Ritchot remains conceptual. The project's advancement will hinge on regulatory approvals, energy discussions, and the province's overarching strategy for harmonizing economic growth with environmental sustainability.