The Canadian government is proposing a “massive” increase in AI data centre capacity, according to reporting across multiple outlets. A government document cited by Global News and The Globe and Mail states that Canada currently has about 337 megawatts of AI data centre capacity. The same document says more than 20 gigawatts—equivalent to about 20,000 megawatts—are in projects that are “under planning or development.”
The Globe and Mail also reports that there is government pushback on the figures, indicating some dispute or clarification regarding the stated capacity and pipeline numbers. Despite differences in how the numbers are presented, both outlets focus on the same overall picture: the government points to substantial near-term growth in the AI data centre sector, with a small existing base capacity and a much larger portfolio of planned or developing projects.
The proposal is framed as part of government efforts to address capacity needs tied to growing demand for AI-related computing infrastructure.
