Utility Newsletter Insert - February 2026

Data Centre Development Update

Positioning Olds for the Future

The Town of Olds is preparing for potential data centre development in our community. Data centres are buildings that store and process digital information. They support online services, cloud computing, and other technology used in our day to day lives.

The Government of Alberta has identified data centres as a priority for economic growth. The Town continues to work with multiple prospective developers, and we will commence engagement as soon as a development application is submitted or an application is filed with the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC).

Data District Announcement

Last month, Data District Inc. announced its intention to open a data centre in Olds, with operations anticipated to begin as early as 2026. Currently, the Town has not received a development permit application and does not have a role in private land transactions, as they do not require municipal approval or public consultation. Once a formal application is submitted, the Town will follow all required review, notification and approval processes under provincial legislation and municipal bylaws.

Why Olds?

Olds has several strengths that make it attractive for data centre development, including reliable infrastructure, access to natural gas, available industrial land, and strong broadband connectivity from our O-NET legacy. These factors align with the Province’s Data Centre Strategy.

Approvals and Oversight

Data centre projects require approvals from multiple levels of government. Provincial ministries and agencies oversee power, water usage, and utility connections. The Town of Olds is responsible for zoning, development permits, and building permits.

Water and electricity are two of the most common concerns, due to experiences in the USA; however, Alberta is doing data centres differently, with natural gas-powered processing (i.e., no grid connection) and closed loop water systems. Check out the Town’s FAQ page for more information.

What This Could Mean for the Community

If approved, a data centre would bring construction activity, long-term employment, and spin-off economic investment to Olds, in addition to an increase to municipal revenue.

Next Steps

We will commence community engagement once a proposal is formally submitted to the Town or the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) and demonstrate how this investment can be done responsibly and benefit our Town and province.

Our Data Centre Development FAQ page is updated regularly. All the links above can be found on this page. Please visit www.olds.ca/datacentres to stay informed.

Mountain View Power Storefront Grant

MVP’s Storefront Grant aims at enhancing the charm and vibrancy of the Uptowne core. A total of $30,000 in funding is available with a maximum of $3,000 per allocation. This initiative is part of Mountain View Power’s efforts to support local businesses, enhance our Uptowne core, and create an inviting atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.

The MVP Storefront Grant Committee (made up of local businesspeople) review applications based on:

• Creativity and impact of the proposed project.
• Feasibility and cost-effectiveness of the project.
• Contribution to the overall aesthetic of the Uptowne core.

To apply, applicants must demonstrate alignment with Mountain View Power’s vision of creating a vibrant and aesthetically pleasing environment and:

• Be the owner or tenant of a storefront within the designated Uptowne core boundaries.
• Propose a project that contributes to the beautification of their storefront, such as:
  • • Fresh paint or visual improvement
    • Updated signage
    • Lighting
    • Exterior walls
    • Awnings/Canopies
    • Landscaping, flower boxes, or planters
• Commit to completing the proposed project within six (6) months of grant approval (funds will be dispersed once the project is completed).