Thousands of Sherbrooke, Quebec residents have expressed opposition to a proposed large-scale data center, alleging a lack of transparency in the municipal council’s push for the project. Concerns raised by residents revolve around the potential environmental impact and noise disturbances associated with the development. They are advocating for comprehensive environmental assessments, public consultations, and are questioning the rationale behind allowing a U.S.-backed company to construct a massive data facility in their community.
The petition, spearheaded by resident Jayson Roy, has garnered over 4,500 signatures, with Roy emphasizing that the city is selectively highlighting the supposed benefits of the project while disregarding specific apprehensions and overlooking the broader implications. Roy emphasized that the issue transcends individual concerns like water quality and noise levels, emphasizing the lack of engagement with residents throughout the decision-making process.
Sherbrooke authorities are progressing with the agreement with Keel Infrastructure, a U.S.-based company formerly known as Bitfarms. This move has triggered memories among many residents of past cryptocurrency ventures by the same company, which faced criticism for noise pollution and energy consumption issues. Roy, who has a background in the tech sector, also raised concerns about digital sovereignty, suggesting that having a Quebec or Canadian entity spearheading the project would be preferable over foreign ownership.
In response to the backlash, Sherbrooke officials have clarified that the deal with Keel Infrastructure is not yet finalized, with Mayor Marie-Claude Bibeau stressing that the current approval merely allows for negotiations regarding the sale of a designated land parcel, not for immediate construction. Bibeau highlighted the significant financial benefits tied to the project, citing the substantial revenue generated through electricity sales as a crucial factor for the city’s economy.
The company has been given a 180-day timeline to complete essential studies, finalize their business strategy, and meet the city’s stipulated conditions. Bibeau reassured the public that measures would be taken to minimize water waste and noise emissions, emphasizing the utilization of modern cooling systems and strategic placement in an industrial zone. The mayor iterated that comprehensive impact studies, including social, noise, and environmental assessments, will be conducted before any final decisions are made.
Despite the company’s plans for a public information session to address resident queries, not all elected officials support the project, with some expressing concerns over transparency issues. Keel Infrastructure has affirmed its awareness of resident apprehensions and highlighted the project’s minimal water usage and power consumption. The company emphasized its commitment to addressing any concerns raised by the community and stressed that the proposed data center should be evaluated independently based on forthcoming details.