West-central Alberta data centre plan draws support and pushback
Oct 28, 2026 · Summarized by Fundy Tech from 7 sources
Tourmaline Oil Corporation and Stream Data Centers are pitching Malachite One near Robb, Alta. Residents and local officials are split over cost, water use, noise and data security.
Key points
- The project is proposed for west-central Alberta near Robb.
- Tourmaline says the facility would sit beside the Banshee Gas Plant.
- CBC reports the infrastructure cost is estimated at $15 billion.
The full story
Tourmaline Oil Corporation is behind a proposed data centre called Malachite One in west-central Alberta. The company held information sessions for residents in Edson, Hinton and Robb, near the proposed site. Texas-based Stream Data Centers would operate the facility if it goes ahead.
CBC says more than 250 people attended the open houses over the past few weeks. In Robb, nearly half of the hamlet’s 150 residents turned up. Local residents raised questions about water use, noise, traffic, data security, environmental impacts and job opportunities. Some also questioned whether there is enough demand for a project estimated at $15 billion for the data centre infrastructure.
Jack Williams, a councillor for Yellowhead County who spoke as a private citizen, said his main concern is that the project does not affect the environment. He said he did not think major noise or light impacts were a threat, based on what he had learned so far. Other residents, including Gerard Bearry and Sharon McGettigan, said they wanted more information and worried the community could be left “holding the bag” if the project fails.
Tourmaline and Stream also presented to Edson, Hinton and Yellowhead County councils. Deputy mayor Brigitte Lemieux said the county supports continued industrial growth, but only if it is responsible and respectful of citizens, communities, land and the environment. Hinton Mayor Brian LaBerge said he was satisfied the developer had addressed residents’ concerns, while a petition to block approval was launched in mid-October. The sources do not say when a final decision will be made.
Why it matters
If approved, the project could affect local jobs, traffic, water use and power planning in the area. Small businesses near Edson, Hinton and Robb may also see knock-on effects from construction and operations.
Who’s affected: Residents, councils and businesses near Robb, Edson and Hinton
What’s next
Yellowhead County has not decided whether it supports the project. A petition in Hinton is also circulating, and regulators still need to review the proposal.
What to do
- Watch local council and regulator updates.
- Ask how the project affects water, noise and traffic.
- Review whether your business could benefit from or be disrupted by construction.
Original reporting
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