Data Centres

With a focus on sustainability and scalability, we are positioned to support the ever-evolving needs of this critical industry.

Connect. Power Up. Grow.

As demand for cloud computing, data storage, and digital services continues to rise, Sturgeon County is emerging as a prime location for data centres. The area’s robust connectivity, combined with access to abundant energy resources and a growing skilled workforce, makes it an attractive destination for businesses looking to expand their digital infrastructure.

Supporting Data Centre Value Chain

Skilled and Talented Workforce

Access a large regional talent pool. The Edmonton Metro Region has 8 post-secondary institutions and almost 100,000 tech workers – with more graduating every year. Our region is the third-largest supplier of STEM graduates in the country. The University of Alberta is ranked 2nd in North America for AI and is #1 in Canada for AI research. 

Market Demand and Growth

Canada is showing rising demand for data centre investment, with an anticipated market value of $9.04 billion by 2029, driven by cloud services, IOT and big data. Alberta is well positioned to support this demand.  

Reliable Energy Supply

Alberta is the only deregulated energy market in Canada. Due to our deregulated market, companies have options as to how they generate power. They can connect to existing infrastructure or generate their own. Sturgeon County has willing energy partners and sustainable energy providers. 

Pre-Zoned Designated Lands

Access to land, supportive partners and proximity to power generation exists here. Over 100 square kilometres of pre-zoned land designated for data centre use in either Alberta’s Industrial Heartland or Sturgeon Industrial Park.

Cool Low-Risk Environment

Sturgeon County is located in a low-risk region for natural disasters and allows you to save on cooling costs due to our natural climate. Northern Alberta has an average annual high of 6.35°C (43.43°F) and a low of -1.2°C (29.8°F). Our cold season lasts about three months, with average January lows around -16 °C (3.2 °F).

Competitive Tax Advantage

In Sturgeon County, access an attractive market with a considerable tax advantage. Alberta has the lowest tax rates in Canada and lower corporate taxes than 44 U. S. states.

Locally, Sturgeon County does not assess or place any taxes on server equipment.

Energy Options

Alberta is the only deregulated energy market in Canada. Due to this environment, companies locating in Alberta have options as to how they generate electricity. They can choose to:

1. Connect to existing infrastructure

Companies can buy electricity from a utility company at a set rate or sign a power purchase agreement (PPA) with a supplier at a negotiated rate and timeframe.

2. Generate your own electricity

Companies can choose to generate their own electricity on-site, “behind the fence”. Sturgeon County has willing energy partners, or companies can go this route on their own.

3. Combination of both

Companies can choose to connect to the grid and generate their own electricity.

Further information regarding the grid connection process can be found on the Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) website.

Willing Energy Partners

We have local low-cost, low-carbon partners willing to invest in energy generation and able to assist you with tapping into local carbon capture, utilization and storage opportunities.

Deregulated North American Market

Data Centre Ecosystem Players

Investment Incentives

Sturgeon County is committed to being globally competitive. Enhance your profitability by taking advantage of our investment incentives.

Note: In some industries, there are complementary provincial support programs. For example, the Alberta Carbon Capture Incentive Program will support and accelerate the development of new carbon capture, utilization and storage infrastructure by providing financial incentives for facilities to incorporate this technology into their operations.

Data Centre Advantages

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Why Sturgeon County?

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Regulatory Framework

In Alberta, every data centre construction adheres to federal, provincial, and municipal regulations. These guidelines span critical areas such as land use, environmental impact, building codes, power infrastructure, etc. This ensures a secure and compliant operational environment. Below is a sampling of regulatory bodies you may need to engage with.

Let's Work Together

Work with our team to identify economic benefits including qualified suppliers, world-class research partners, incentives and shovel-ready development sites.

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