The Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation demands consultation on a $70 billion AI data center project in their traditional territory
Sturgeon Lake: The Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation is making some noise. They sent an open letter to Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, demanding to be heard.
Chief Sheldon Sunshine expressed his concerns, saying it’s troubling that they weren’t consulted about a huge $70 billion AI data center project. This project is being pushed by Kevin O’Leary, a well-known businessman and TV personality.
O’Leary has been hyping this project, calling it the largest real estate venture ever proposed in Canada. It’s a massive 7,000-acre data center park planned about 42 kilometers south of Grande Prairie.
He claims to have already secured the land and expects to have power turbines operational in just two years, with the data centers being built in phases.
O’Leary, who likes to call himself “Mr. Wonderful,” mentioned he’s been in talks with the premier’s office. He feels optimistic about the business climate in Canada, especially with a potential Conservative government coming to power.
However, Chief Sunshine says his community only found out about the project, named “Wonder Valley,” through the news. They believe the site is part of their traditional territory, which they still use for fishing, hunting, and trapping.
While the Cree Nation opposes the land transfer for this project, they have concerns about water usage and carbon capture. The chief isn’t against the idea of the data center but wants to have a conversation with O’Leary and Smith.
He stated, “We’re open. We’re not opposed to having those discussions, as long as everybody’s open, honest.”
