Overview

• Four chiefs from Enoch Cree, Alexis Nakota Sioux, Alexander and Paul First Nations sent an open letter to Premier Danielle Smith and AESO leaders calling for a rethink of power allocation for data centres.
• Alberta has fielded 29 connection requests representing over 16,000 megawatts and capped large-load projects at 1,200 megawatts through 2028 to protect grid stability.
• The provincial government and AESO argue the 1,200 megawatt interim limit allows projects in advanced planning to proceed while a long-term allocation framework is developed.
• First Nations leaders warn that allocating power in small pro rata shares will deter anchor tenants such as Microsoft, Amazon and Meta.
• Chiefs propose a power-sharing model and express willingness to invest in on-reserve data centre projects to accommodate larger facilities.