Premier Tim Houston defends changing Nova Scotia data centre position, says federal requirements a big factor

Premier Tim Houston defended his change of opinion toward data centres as one company is exploring possibilities in Nova Scotia.

In June, Houston said he was hesitant to consider data centre development until the province had enough electricity available for them to run without hurting Nova Scotians’ power bills.

However, in September, Houston made a post to Facebook in which he highlighted his changed stance, citing growing conflict between Canada and the United States, as well as outlining his conditions for developers around issues like power rates and water use.

“The conversation around us has changed quickly,” Houston wrote.

Following cabinet Thursday, when asked about his reversal, Houston cited geopolitical changes in addition to the federal government’s approach to data centres that includes standards for water use, noise, environmental impact and protecting power rates.

“I think a lot has happened just in the world, geopolitics, all kinds of situations there,” he said.

“When you look at some of the positioning of the federal government around data sovereignty, around the regulations that would be required, definitely (they) were thoughtful and had an impact on me.”

According to Houston, developers would need to meet or exceed the federal requirements, address environmental and water usage concerns, and ensure there are no impacts on power rates for the public before a project goes ahead.

When asked if the province would establish its own regulations, Houston said it was “high on the practical agenda,” adding that his government was already enforcing conditions on potential developers.

“It’s stronger than regulation. It’s just the reality. That’s the position of this government,” Houston said.

NDP Leader Claudia Chender criticized the premier’s change of heart, saying Nova Scotians need safeguards for developers that are enforceable.

“The premier’s word is not good enough,” Chender said to reporters Thursday. “As evidenced today by the fact that he routinely changes his mind.”

She shared her concerns about the impacts a data centre could have on Nova Scotia communities, water usage and power bills.

Interim Liberal Leader Iain Rankin said the premier’s opinion change is “par for the course,” also calling for safeguarding regulations.

The discussions comes as EverWind, which is pursuing green hydrogen development, is looking at the possibility of a data centre at its property in Point Tupper. An announcement is expected Friday, though it has not been confirmed if it is related to a potential data centre.