Thousands of residents in Sherbrooke, Quebec, have expressed opposition to a proposed large-scale data center, citing concerns over lack of transparency from the municipal council. Worries about the potential environmental impact and noise levels of the project have prompted residents to demand thorough environmental assessments and open discussions. The involvement of a U.S.-based company in constructing a massive data center in their community has also raised questions about the decision-making process.
Jayson Roy, a key figure behind the petition that has gathered over 4,500 signatures, criticized the city for downplaying specific worries and neglecting broader considerations. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive evaluation beyond individual issues. The city has been moving forward with the agreement with Keel Infrastructure, a U.S. entity formerly known as Bitfarms, which has stirred memories of past controversies related to noise and energy consumption from cryptocurrency operations by the same company.
Residents, including Roy, have expressed unease about the lack of transparency surrounding the project and have raised concerns about digital sovereignty. Roy highlighted the preference for local or national companies over foreign entities for such significant developments. The dissatisfaction with the opaque decision-making process has fueled skepticism among residents.
In response to the backlash, Sherbrooke officials clarified that the deal with Keel Infrastructure is not yet finalized. Mayor Marie-Claude Bibeau stressed that the approval is merely a step toward negotiation, not a green light for construction. The economic benefits, particularly the substantial revenue generated from electricity sales, have been highlighted as crucial for the city’s finances.
Bibeau reassured the public that thorough studies and stringent conditions will be enforced before any construction begins. Measures such as closed-circuit cooling systems and strategic location planning aim to minimize environmental impact and noise disturbances. The city is committed to ensuring that all aspects of the project are carefully evaluated and mitigated.
Despite the city’s stance, some elected officials, including three councillors from Sherbrooke Citoyen, have expressed reservations about the lack of transparency and public consultation in the initial stages. Keel Infrastructure acknowledged the residents’ concerns and emphasized the sustainable practices and minimal water usage of the proposed data center. The company plans to address community questions through a forthcoming public information session and stressed that the project’s evaluation should be based on current information rather than past experiences.
As discussions and evaluations continue, the future of the data center project in Sherbrooke remains a point of contention, with residents, officials, and the company navigating through differing perspectives and priorities.
