Thousands of citizens in Sherbrooke, Quebec, have expressed their opposition to a planned large-scale data center, alleging that the local council is pushing the project forward with limited transparency. Concerns raised by residents focus on the potential environmental impact and noise pollution of the proposed development. They are calling for comprehensive environmental assessments, public consultations, and are questioning the decision to allow a U.S.-based company to construct a massive data center in their vicinity.
Jayson Roy, a resident actively involved in the petition, has gathered over 4,500 signatures, emphasizing that the city is selectively highlighting the project’s benefits while overlooking specific issues and neglecting the broader implications. Roy stressed that the concerns extend beyond isolated problems and demand a more holistic approach.
The municipal administration in Sherbrooke is progressing with an agreement with Keel Infrastructure, a U.S. firm formerly named Bitfarms. This move has triggered memories of past cryptocurrency ventures by the same company, which faced criticism for noise disturbances and excessive energy consumption. Residents view the conditional land sale as a recurring issue, prompting apprehensions regarding the potential outcomes of the new project.
Roy, who has a background in the technology sector, has also cast doubts on the concept of digital sovereignty, raising the point that the involvement of a foreign entity in the data center project contrasts with supporting local or national enterprises. He emphasized the need for a project aligned with the interests of the community.
In response to the mounting backlash, Sherbrooke officials have clarified that the deal is not yet finalized. Mayor Marie-Claude Bibeau underscored that the current approval merely authorizes negotiations for the sale of a specific industrial lot and does not signify construction permission. The financial aspect of the project is highlighted, with electricity sales generating substantial revenue for the city, providing a considerable financial incentive for the municipal government.
The city has set a timeline of 180 days for Keel Infrastructure to complete essential studies, finalize business plans, and meet specified conditions. Bibeau assured that measures would be in place to minimize water wastage and noise levels through advanced cooling systems and the strategic location of the facility. She emphasized the necessity of conducting thorough impact assessments and consultations with relevant authorities before greenlighting the project.
Keel Infrastructure has acknowledged the concerns raised by residents and plans to host a public information session to address queries and provide insights into the project. The company has stated that the data center’s operations would not significantly increase water consumption or electricity demand, aiming to transfer existing capacity to the new site rather than seeking additional power generation. They have distanced themselves from past noise issues associated with cryptocurrency mining activities and emphasized the need to evaluate the new data center independently based on forthcoming information.