The Peskotomuhkati community on both sides of the Canada-U.S. border expresses concerns about a planned underwater AI data center in Maine that could impact a vital waterway essential to their sustenance and heritage. Aaron Dana, a tribal representative in the Maine Legislature, highlights worries about potential environmental repercussions of the proposed data center in Eastport, Maine, extending to the nearby waters that have historically supported their community.
The primary focus for the Peskotomuhkati leadership revolves around the water resources that have been crucial for their livelihood for generations. Dana emphasizes the significance of these resources, stating that many people worldwide depend on the food sourced from these waters. The proposed data center aims to utilize tidal turbines for generating electricity to power underwater AI computing and cooling systems. The project envisions deploying up to 50 tidal turbines producing 15 megawatts of power and housing around 34 underwater AI server pods within an 11-hectare portion of a larger study area in the Passamaquoddy Bay.
Given the complex international boundary in the area, Dana underscores the intricate nature of the project. The proximity of New Brunswick to Eastport raises concerns about potential cross-border impacts on the ecosystem, as the health of the region is interconnected across the border. Dana fears that the data center initiative could exacerbate existing environmental challenges he attributes to climate change, posing additional risks to the bay’s ecosystem.
The Peskotomuhkati territory predates the Canada-U.S. boundary, with communities in Maine and an estimated 350 Peskotomuhkati individuals in New Brunswick. Chief Hugh Akagi of the Peskotomuhkati Nation at Skutik in New Brunswick emphasizes the deep-rooted connection of the community to the St. Croix River and Passamaquoddy Bay, integral to their cultural identity. Akagi, who has extensive experience in fisheries science, stresses the importance of preserving the region’s resources for future generations.
As concerns mount, questions regarding jurisdiction arise, with Peskotomuhkati leaders and local residents in Eastport expressing reservations about the project. The city council’s opposition and community pushback underscore the need for thorough evaluation and consideration of the potential impacts. While the project developer emphasizes a consultative approach and environmental studies, the Peskotomuhkati maintain their stance against the data center, emphasizing the need for genuine engagement and respect for tribal sovereignty.