A proposed data center in west Saint John is not expected to have a significant impact on the city’s industrial water supply, according to documents submitted for the environmental impact assessment. The data center, which includes a natural gas power plant for some of its energy needs, would require a substantial amount of power at 390 megawatts. Additionally, it is projected to be one of the top greenhouse gas emitters in the province.
The companies behind the project, Beacon New Brunswick and VoltaGrid, state that the data center will employ a closed-loop water-based cooling system, which will reduce overall water consumption compared to other cooling designs. They anticipate entering a long-term commercial agreement lasting 15 to 20 years with an unidentified customer for the data center’s services.
Concerns have been raised about the water usage of data centers, but the companies estimate that the initial water requirement for the cooling system will be minimal, around 3.5 million liters, significantly lower than other industrial users in the area. Mayor Donna Reardon emphasized that the closed-loop system will efficiently manage water consumption, likening it to a household heating system.
Despite assurances that the water usage will be minimal, the data center’s natural gas plant is expected to become one of the top industrial emitters of greenhouse gases in New Brunswick, ranking among the province’s top 10 emitters. Green Party Leader David Coon highlighted the environmental impact of data centers, urging a transition to renewable energy sources to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The data center project is slated to require 390 megawatts of power generation, with a natural gas facility on-site supplying 190 MW and N.B. Power providing the remaining 200 MW. The facility will be constructed on a 120-hectare parcel in the Lorneville Industrial Park, following a unanimous decision by the Saint John city council to rezone the land for industrial expansion.
Local resident Chris Watson, opposed to the development due to its environmental impact, criticized the project’s location and potential destruction of wetlands and old growth forest. Mayor Reardon expressed support for the environmental assessment process, emphasizing the need for responsible business development that benefits the community while protecting the environment.
Construction of the data center and supporting infrastructure is expected to commence this year, pending necessary approvals, with commercial operations anticipated to start in 2028. The center is projected to have a minimum operating life of 25 to 30 years, with ongoing technical reviews and public consultations as part of the assessment process.