Telus and feds announce AI data cluster in B.C. to boost 'sovereign' computing power

Canada’s federal government and Telus have launched a major AI infrastructure project in British Columbia, designed to enhance the country’s sovereign computing capabilities. The initiative, announced in Vancouver by AI Minister Evan Solomon and Telus, includes three facilities: an expansion of Telus’s existing Kamloops data center, a new facility in Vancouver’s Mount Pleasant neighborhood, and a downtown Vancouver location set to open in 2029. Telus claims the cluster will be one of the world’s most powerful and sustainable AI infrastructure setups. The project aligns with a federal effort introduced last year to develop large-scale sovereign data centers across Canada. The Kamloops expansion and the Mount Pleasant facility are expected to open later this year, while the downtown Vancouver site will come online in 2029. The government emphasizes that the initiative will foster collaboration between academia and industry to drive domestic AI innovation. Telus has pledged significant investment to support the project, which aims to reduce reliance on foreign AI infrastructure while promoting sustainability. The facilities will reportedly prioritize energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. The announcement follows growing global competition in AI computing, positioning Canada as a key player in the field. The project is part of broader federal efforts to strengthen Canada’s tech sector, particularly in AI and data sovereignty. By hosting these facilities in British Columbia, the government and Telus aim to create a hub for research, development, and commercial applications of AI. The initiative also underscores Canada’s commitment to balancing technological advancement with ethical and sustainable practices.