The chiefs of the Alexander First Nation, Paul First Nation, Enoch Cree Nation, and Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation have expressed their interest in participating as stakeholders and potential investors in Alberta's emerging data centre industry. They support Alberta's ambition to lead in the digital economy, especially in AI and digital infrastructure.

There is rising global demand for data center capacity, driven by AI applications requiring robust power capacity. Indigenous communities are eager to collaborate in this industry to generate jobs, revenue, and long-term prosperity. However, the recent AESO announcement threatens these ambitions by potentially limiting Alberta’s capacity to attract large hyperscalers.

There are 29 proposed data center projects in Alberta with over 16 gigawatts of demand, yet there's only 1,200 MW available, spread across multiple projects. The current capacity allocation strategy fails to accommodate gigawatt-scale projects essential for competing globally. This approach might inadvertently limit Alberta’s competitiveness.

The letter highlights that hyperscalers require gigawatt-scale capacity, which the current methodology fails to provide. The dispersed allocation risks prioritizing smaller initiatives over large, necessary economic investments. This contradicts Alberta’s own Data Centre Strategy focused on attracting significant investments.

The chiefs urge reconsideration of the policy to enable gigawatt-scale development, aligning with Alberta's vision and capturing substantial economic benefits. Their collaboration with the government can ensure socially responsible and prosperous outcomes, creating a model partnership for Canada.

In conclusion, the letter stresses the need for a bold policy shift to fulfill Alberta’s potential as a global digital innovation hub, thereby ensuring long-term prosperity.