Christie Little is raising awareness about a possible AI data center development near her residence of two decades, expressing deep concerns about the potential consequences. Little, who cherishes her current living situation and had planned to stay there for many more years, is troubled by the proposed establishment of an AI data center by Las Vegas-based Jet.AI and Vancouver-based Consensus Core on a 141-hectare plot of land north of Île des Chênes in the rural municipality of Ritchot.
The primary worries revolve around the proximity of the data center to the community, with fears of noise, light, and air pollution looming large in Little’s mind. The companies involved disclosed intentions to construct a natural gas-fired power generation plant with up to six turbines on the designated land, as per information shared with CBC News last year.
In response to the project plans, Little initiated an online petition which has garnered over 10,000 signatures to date. Despite the absence of RM of Ritchot Mayor Chris Ewan for an interview, a spokesperson indicated that the municipality is cognizant of the petition and shares similar concerns with residents. Seeking clarification from the company directly, the RM has urged for community engagement to address queries and apprehensions.
Regarding the government stance, a spokesperson from the Government of Manitoba confirmed awareness of Jet.AI’s interest in establishing a data center in the province, highlighting that power applications would be first directed to Manitoba Hydro before further submission to the province.
For Little, encountering the concept of AI data centers was a novel experience triggered by a social media post about the proposed development near her home. The petition was launched with the intent to disseminate information swiftly to a wider audience, fostering increased awareness.
In a parallel scenario in Saskatchewan, protests have erupted against Bell Canada’s AI data center project in the RM of Sherwood, south of Regina. Despite opposition from residents and a petition amassing 13,000 signatures, the RM approved the project in April. Protester Jay-Jay Bigsky emphasized the importance of physical petitions, underscoring their impact compared to online counterparts.
Expressing staunch opposition to AI, Bigsky cited concerns about power consumption, water usage, and environmental risks associated with large data centers, urging for serious consideration of these issues. He emphasized the interconnectedness of communities and the relevance of local actions on broader environmental impacts.
David Gerhard, head of the University of Manitoba computer science department, acknowledged the downsides of data centers, including noise and environmental pollution, but emphasized the broader societal implications of AI adoption. Gerhard highlighted the need to assess the societal implications of AI deployment, weighing the benefits against the environmental costs.
While recognizing potential benefits of local data centers, Gerhard underscored the importance of deliberating on the societal implications and economic repercussions of widespread AI adoption. For Little, the tranquility and scenic beauty of Île des Chênes hold immense value, making the potential disruptions posed by the data center a significant concern.
The evolving landscape of AI data center projects in Southeast Manitoba and Saskatchewan reflects a broader societal conversation surrounding technology’s impact on communities and the environment, prompting critical reflections on the path ahead.