Bell is moving ahead with a massive AI data centre just south of Regina, planning more than 500,000 sq ft of low‑rise space, office areas and a dedicated power substation. While the project promises research opportunities and local jobs, nearby residents are alarmed about potential water withdrawals and persistent noise, and you’ll want to know how these issues could affect the community.
Project Overview and Planned Facilities
The rezoning request covers roughly 65 hectares of farmland. The campus will eventually host multiple low‑rise buildings, administrative offices, a SaskPower substation and 300 parking stalls. Phase 1 focuses on a 90,000‑sq‑ft building slated for construction soon.
Key Features of Phase 1
- 90,000 sq ft data‑centre building
- Dedicated power substation for direct grid connection
- Private cisterns intended for water services
- 300 parking spaces for staff and visitors
Community Concerns: Water Use
Local landowners rely on private wells and have asked for clear answers on water sourcing. They want to know whether the centre will tap municipal supplies or draw from groundwater, and how any extraction will be measured. Experts warn that large‑scale evaporative cooling can consume tens of thousands of cubic metres of water annually, potentially lowering water tables.
Community Concerns: Noise Impact
Neighbors also fear continuous noise from cooling systems and backup generators. The filing does not specify expected decibel levels, leaving residents uncertain about how sound will travel across the open prairie. Acoustic enclosures and strategic equipment placement can help, but baseline sound measurements and enforceable limits are essential.
Potential Mitigation Strategies
Modern liquid‑cooling architectures can recycle heat for district heating or agricultural use, turning a challenge into a benefit. A closed‑loop water system that recirculates water and only replaces evaporative losses can dramatically cut fresh‑water demand. Acoustic shielding and careful layout can reduce noise to acceptable levels.
Next Steps and Regulatory Outlook
The Rural Municipality of Sherwood has not yet decided on the rezoning request. If the project proceeds, regulators will likely set measurable limits on water withdrawal and noise emissions, drawing on provincial environmental statutes and industry best practices. You’ll want to stay informed as these decisions unfold.
