MD of Opportunity No. 17

RE: Armada-Nowlit Data Center Development – Wabasca, Alberta

The Municipal District of Opportunity No. 17 Reeve and Council have carefully
reviewed the proposed Armada-Nowlit data center development in Wabasca. The
initial process commenced in late 2025. Council had many questions regarding
environmental impacts and the usage of water and power. Council further educated
themselves by touring the Armada-Nowlit facility and was presented with what was
proposed. The data center is considered small in scale, consisting of nine natural
gas-fired generator sets with modular data processing units. At the end of its
operational lifespan, all associated infrastructure will be removed, and the site will
be reclaimed.

Council recognizes the importance of balancing responsible economic development
with environmental stewardship and the interests of local residents and neighboring
Indigenous communities.

As part of its review, Council considered the following key factors

  • Environmental Impact: The project will utilize the existing industrial site of the
    former Hoole Creek Natural Gas Plant, avoid additional land clearing and minimize
    environmental disturbance. Once fully developed, the data center is expected to
    consist of up to nine sea-can-sized units, representing a relatively compact footprint.
  • Power Supply and Local Grid Impact: The data center will operate using electricity
    generated by an on-site natural gas-fired power plant at the former Hoole Creek
    facility. It will operate independently of the local electrical distribution grid and is not
    expected to place additional demand on local electricity supply or grid capacity
  • Noise Levels: A Noise Impact Assessment was submitted to both the MD and the
    Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) as part of the project’s Rule 007 application. The
    assessment indicates that projected noise levels will be lower than those associated
    with the site’s previous industrial operations. Council considered these findings as
    part of its review.
  • Water Usage: The facility will use a closed-loop cooling system with a 50/50 water
    and glycol mixture. The total yearly consumption of water equals what an average
    MD residential household would utilize in two weeks.
  • Economic Development and Employment: The project represents an opportunity
    to attract private investment, diversify the local economy, support additional
    industrial development, and create construction-related and permanent operational
    employment opportunities which include local natural gas plant operators and data
    center operators.
  • AUC Regulatory Review: The project and associated regulated utility infrastructure
    are subject to applicable provincial approvals. Under AUC Rule 007, regulated
    facility applications undergo independent review, including consideration of
    environmental, social and economic impacts and opportunities for public and
    municipal participation. The AUC independently determines whether applicable
    regulatory approvals should be granted in public interest.
  • Community Benefits and Food Security: The proposed development is also in
    the beginning stages of carbon capture from the emissions of the facility. They
    would then filter the carbon into a greenhouse which would produce fresh fruits and
    vegetables year round for the local food bank or residents of the community.

After an extensive review and careful consideration of the potential benefits,
challenges and environmental considerations, the MD of Opportunity Reeve and
Council have concluded that the anticipated economic benefits of the Armada-Nowlit
development, combined with its relatively limited environmental impact, warrant
municipal support.

Council’s position reflects a balanced assessment of the opportunities and potential
concerns associated with this type of development. Council also recognizes the
importance of continued public engagement and consultation with affected
stakeholders, including Indigenous communities. The MD Reeve and Council has
also requested that Armada-Nowlit meet with BCN Chief and Council as well as hold
an open house to encourage Armada-Nowlit to provide opportunities for residents
and neighboring communities to receive information and raise concerns.

The MD of Opportunity remains committed to supporting responsible economic
development that attracts investment, creates employment, protects the
environment, and contributes to the long-term prosperity of the region.

Municipal District of Opportunity Reeve and Council

MEDIA RELEASE Armada-Nowlit Data Center Development – Wabasca, Alberta 11NOV2026