A large-scale data center is in the pre-construction phase near Port Hawkesbury in Cape Breton to support Anthropic, a prominent artificial intelligence company. EverWind Fuels will oversee the construction, and Anthropic has secured a 20-year lease for the initial phase. The data center aims to fuel Claude models and meet the rising demands from Canadian and global clientele.
EverWind, led by Trent Vichie, an Australian-American private equity expert, had previously hinted at its data center aspirations without revealing much. However, the company recently disclosed detailed plans for the project. The facility will be developed in two stages, with the first phase expected to be operational by the end of 2027, followed by the second phase in 2028. The total capacity will be 420 megawatts, with the first phase at 95 megawatts and the second at 325 megawatts, contributing to Nova Scotia’s current electrical generating capacity of nearly 3,000 megawatts.
To fund the project, EverWind is raising $8 billion in private capital, along with an additional $2 billion for four onshore wind farms. The company emphasized its commitment to supporting Nova Scotia’s energy and knowledge economies. The construction has already begun, with plans to lay foundations before winter.
EverWind’s wind farms will ultimately supply the data center’s power needs, although the provincial grid will initially be the primary source. The Independent Energy System Operator is evaluating the project’s connection to ensure grid compatibility. Notably, political figures and local leaders have expressed support for the initiative, acknowledging its potential economic benefits and opportunities for the community.
Despite the positive reception, some concerns have been raised regarding the project’s scale and environmental impact. EverWind has pledged to adhere to responsible data center development principles set by the federal and provincial governments. The company plans to implement a closed-loop water-glycol system, estimating water usage at 100,000 liters per day for the first phase and 500,000 liters per day for both phases combined.
Moreover, EverWind has committed to initiating a community benefit program valued at tens of millions of dollars. Discussions are ongoing with local communities and Anthropic on how to allocate these funds. Additionally, a consortium of Mi’kmaw communities, led by Membertou First Nation, is negotiating a nine percent equity stake in the project. While there is optimism surrounding the project, thorough impact assessments are deemed essential before proceeding.
In conclusion, the data center project signifies substantial private investments in Nova Scotia’s energy sector, aligning with governmental priorities for responsible and sustainable development.
