Houston says no active plans for data centres in Nova Scotia
Premier Tim Houston says Nova Scotia is not actively pursuing data centres, but believes the discussion could become more relevant in the future as the province expands its energy capacity.
Speaking with reporters following cabinet on Thursday, Houston was asked whether Nova Scotia is interested in attracting large-scale data centre developments.
Data centres are facilities that house thousands of computer servers used to store, process and distribute digital information. They support everything from websites and streaming services to cloud computing and artificial intelligence.
Houston said there are currently no proposals before the province and no active effort underway to attract the facilities.
“It’s not something we’re actively pursuing,” Houston said.
However, he noted that Nova Scotia is planning significant growth in electricity generation through projects such as Wind West, additional onshore wind development and potential natural gas opportunities.
Houston said that increased energy production could eventually make the province a more realistic location for data centre investment.
Energy would be a major consideration
The premier stressed that energy availability would be a key factor in any future discussions.
Data centres are known for their large electricity demands, and concerns have been raised in some jurisdictions about their impact on power grids.
Houston said Nova Scotia would not move forward with any project that could compromise energy reliability for residents.
“There wouldn’t be a commitment to a data centre unless we could fully supply the energy without any risk to Nova Scotians,” he said.
He added that any proposal would need to demonstrate a clear benefit to the province and undergo a thorough review process.
No proposals currently under consideration
While Houston acknowledged there is growing awareness of data centres and their role in the modern economy, he emphasized the issue is not currently a government priority.
“There are no proposals,” he said. “It’s not a today thing, not even a tomorrow thing. Might be in the future.”
Houston said discussions about data centres occasionally arise because Nova Scotia is viewed as a potential location, but those conversations have not advanced beyond a general level.
For now, the premier says the province’s focus remains on building the energy infrastructure that could support future economic opportunities while ensuring the needs of Nova Scotians come first.
