O’Leary’s AI centre south of Grande Prairie working with province in weekly meetings

A rendering of Wonder Valley. (O'Leary Ventures)

The development of the large-scale AI data centre dubbed Wonder Valley south of Grande Prairie is ongoing.

The project, slated for Greenview Industrial Gateway (GIG), was announced in December.

Canadian businessman Kevin O’Leary and O’Leary Ventures are planning a total investment of over $70 billion in the project’s lifetime.

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“Once completed, it will be the largest development of its kind in the world, positioning our region as a leader in technology innovation and sustainable energy solutions,” said MD of Greenview economic development manager Larry Gibson.

• Largest AI data centre in the world to be built in northwest Alberta

He spoke about the Wonder Valley project at the city’s State of the City event on March 25.

“This project will unfold in multiple phases, with the first phase alone representing a $12 billion investment to develop 1.4 gigawatts of power infrastructure over time; the full build-out is expected to exceed $70 billion, creating thousands of jobs, strengthening our local economy and attracting global investment.”

He said the region’s cold climate, skilled workforce, access to fibre optic networks, and abundant natural gas reserves are reasons why the location was chosen.

City of Grande Prairie Mayor Jackie Clayton said the GIG “holds tremendous potential to support long-term growth, attract new opportunities and enhance regional prosperity.

“We’re looking forward to the positive impacts that the GIG will bring not only to the region but to our local community, to our businesses and residents alike.”

Gibson said Wonder Valley is currently working on attaining a Master Water License, which he says is a critical component of the project’s long-term viability.

“We’re holding weekly meetings with the province’s concierge team. These sessions allow us to navigate regulatory processes and sufficiently address any potential roadblocks early and keep all stakeholders aligned on the next steps.”

Gibson said the project is making the MD a place for “global innovation, investment and long-term prosperity.”

“​​The level of co-operation and commitment from all involved parties has been exceptional, and we’re seeing really, real progress and real results beyond the direct economic impacts,” said Gibson.

A December media release said GIG will offer 7.5 GW of low-cost power to hyperscalers, computers used for data management that require vast infrastructure for large-scale data processing and storage, over the next five to 10 years.

“O’Leary Ventures has begun pre-engagement with many communities in the area, ensuring early and meaningful conversations to foster collaboration and long-term partnerships to maintain momentum,” said Gibson.

In January, Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation (SLCN) released a media release saying it had not been consulted on land use for GIG.

“There has been no consultation,” said SLCN Chief Sheldon Sunshine, who noted the First Nation only learned of the project from a press release.

“The way they act and talk, it’s as if our land and water are there for the taking, and we are expected to get in line to receive the so-called economic benefits.

“Our people are here to remind Mr. O’Leary and Greenview of the International Treaty, Treaty No. 8, that allows us all to share this land.

“There is protocol. There are legal requirements. They are not being followed.”

In an open letter to the premier, Sunshine outlined his concerns about GIG and his opposition to transferring the land to GIG, saying people have traplines in the area and use the water from the Smoky River.

“It is one of the few areas accessible to exercise our way of life, which has been systemically eroded by unmitigated cumulative effects resulting from the provincial government’s authorizations of industrial development in our territory,” writes Sunshine.

He said SLCN wrote to the province in May 2024, before the Wonder Valley announcement, with concerns on the Carbon Capture Sequestration plans at GIG, asking for meaningful engagement and consultation with the First Nation. He said no response was received.

By Jesse Boily, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Town & Country News