Thousands of Sherbrooke, Quebec residents have voiced opposition to a proposed large-scale data center, claiming that the municipal council is pushing the project forward with limited transparency. Concerns raised by residents revolve around the environmental impact and noise levels associated with the development. They are advocating for comprehensive environmental assessments, public forums, and are skeptical about the decision to allow a U.S.-based company to construct a significant data center in their community.
Leading the petition efforts is Jayson Roy, who has gathered over 4,500 signatures. Roy emphasizes that the city is selectively highlighting the purported advantages of the project while dismissing specific worries and neglecting the broader implications. He stresses that the issues at hand go beyond individual concerns and warrant a more holistic approach.
Sherbrooke’s municipal council is progressing with a partnership with Keel Infrastructure, a U.S. company formerly known as Bitfarms. This move has triggered memories for many residents of past cryptocurrency ventures by the same company, which faced backlash due to noise disturbances and high energy consumption.
Roy, who is part of the tech industry, has also raised alarms about digital sovereignty, pointing out that having a Quebec or Canadian entity behind the project would be preferable to benefit the local economy. He expressed discontent with the lack of transparency in the decision-making process and the absence of engagement with residents.
Responding to the criticism, Sherbrooke officials have clarified that the deal with Keel Infrastructure is not finalized. Mayor Marie-Claude Bibeau explained that the conditional approval merely authorizes negotiations for the sale of a specific lot and does not signify construction authorization. The municipal leaders underscore the financial significance of the project, citing the substantial revenue generated through electricity sales.
Bibeau outlined that the company has a set timeframe to complete essential studies, solidify its business strategy, and adhere to the city’s requirements. She highlighted the implementation of advanced cooling systems to minimize water wastage and noise pollution, emphasizing that all necessary studies on social, noise, and environmental impacts will be conducted.
Despite the company’s plans for a public information session in the upcoming months to address resident concerns, not all elected officials are in favor of the project. Some councillors have criticized the lack of transparency and the need for more comprehensive information sharing and public consultation.
Keel Infrastructure, in response to the petition, assured residents that the data center project would have minimal impact on water resources and electricity consumption. The company emphasized that it would not increase power consumption and aims to transfer existing electrical capacity to the new site. It also highlighted its commitment to address any potential noise issues and requested that the project be evaluated based on its own merits as further details become available.