Thousands of residents in Sherbrooke, Quebec, have expressed their opposition to a large-scale data center project that they believe lacks transparency in its approval process by the local council. Concerns raised by residents include environmental impact, noise pollution, and the involvement of a U.S.-based company in constructing a significant data center in their community.
Jayson Roy, a resident spearheading the petition against the project, emphasized that the city is selectively highlighting the perceived benefits of the project while dismissing specific worries and neglecting the broader implications. With over 4,500 signatures collected, Roy stressed that the issues at hand extend beyond individual concerns, urging for more comprehensive discussions and environmental assessments.
The city of Sherbrooke is moving forward with a partnership with Keel Infrastructure, a U.S. company previously known as Bitfarms. This decision has triggered memories of past cryptocurrency ventures by the same company, which faced criticism for noise disturbances and high energy consumption, leaving many residents skeptical about the current proposal.
Residents, including Roy, have voiced unease over the lack of transparency in the decision-making process. Roy highlighted his attempts to obtain information from the city clerk, only to be met with confidentiality regarding essential studies and development plans. Furthermore, concerns regarding digital sovereignty were raised, with residents questioning the choice of a foreign company over a local or national entity for such a significant project.
Sherbrooke officials have responded to the backlash by clarifying that the deal with Keel Infrastructure is not finalized. Mayor Marie-Claude Bibeau explained that the approval merely initiates negotiations for land sale and does not authorize construction. The financial benefits for the city, particularly in terms of electricity revenue, have been emphasized as a significant factor in the decision-making process.
The company has been granted 180 days to complete necessary studies, finalize their business plan, and meet the city’s conditions. Bibeau assured that measures would be taken to minimize environmental impact, such as using advanced cooling systems and running backup generators only when necessary. Despite previous concerns about noise and energy consumption from cryptocurrency mining operations, the city maintains that the new data center would operate differently and in a more controlled environment.
While plans for the data center move forward, municipal councillors have expressed reservations, calling for more transparency and public engagement in the decision-making process. Keel Infrastructure has acknowledged residents’ concerns and plans to conduct a public information session to address questions and provide clarity on the project’s details. The company emphasized that the data center would not significantly increase electricity consumption and highlighted its commitment to addressing past issues and ensuring the new facility’s compliance with regulations.