Power transmission lines and wind turbines near Pincher Creek, Alta. The province wants to attract AI data centres, but current infrastructure can’t handle their demand for electricity.

Data-centre projects that come with the ability to generate their own power will be prioritized in Alberta under new legislation, as the province grapples with how to embrace the burgeoning sector but avoid straining the public grid.

The province has long wanted to attract massive data centres to power generative artificial intelligence, with the goal of $100-billion worth of projects under construction within the next five years. Dozens of projects already sit on a list in front of the Alberta Electric Systems Operator (AESO), the body responsible for the provincial power grid, requesting connection. But

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