Bell's AI Ambition: New Data Centres in B.C. to Revolutionize Canada's Tech Landscape

In a monumental move set to redefine Canada’s technological prowess, Bell Canada is embarking on an ambitious project to establish six advanced artificial intelligence (AI) data centres in British Columbia. This initiative, touted as the largest AI compute project in the country, signals a new era for Canadian businesses and government entities that are increasingly relying on AI-driven solutions to tackle complex challenges.

Powering Up with Hydro

Central to this initiative is the promise of approximately 500 megawatts of hydroelectric-power-enabled AI compute capacity. This sustainable approach not only aligns with global calls for environmentally conscious tech solutions but also ensures that the vast array of services can be executed with remarkable efficiency and reduced environmental impact.

A Partnership for Progress

The first significant stride towards this AI vision begins next month in Kamloops with the opening of a seven-megawatt data centre. In collaboration with Groq, an American leader in AI inference technology, Bell aims to create a powerhouse for AI inference tasks, particularly focusing on large language models. According to Jonathan Ross, Groq’s founder and CEO, “Groq’s advanced LPU technology, combined with Bell’s extensive fibre infrastructure, is setting a new standard in AI inference.”

Expanding Horizons

Further cementing this technological leap, Bell plans to inaugurate additional facilities in Merritt and other strategic locations, each designed to cater to high-density AI workloads. The planned Merritt facility is just the beginning, with additional sites projected to open by the end of 2026. This foresight ensures that Canada stays at the forefront of AI infrastructure, ready to meet increasing demand with robust capabilities.

Enhancing Canada’s AI Economy

Mirko Bibic, Bell’s president and CEO, emphasizes the broader impact of this initiative: “Bell’s AI Fabric will ensure that Canadian businesses, researchers, and public institutions can access high-performance, sovereign and environmentally responsible AI computing services.” By leveraging Bell’s real estate and technology assets, the initiative not only enhances Canada’s AI capacity but also lays down the foundation for an ever-expanding AI economy.

Ateko: The Tech Frontier

Complementing this grand infrastructure development is Bell’s newly minted tech services brand, Ateko. With acquisitions like FX Innovation and HGC Technologies under its umbrella, Ateko aims to streamline business operations through AI, aiming to create a $1-billion tech services enterprise. As stated in Tri-City News, this strategic move underlines Bell’s commitment to not only participate in but lead the AI revolution across North America.

This forward-thinking venture not only propels Bell to the forefront of technology innovation but sets a benchmark for others in the industry. By investing in AI infrastructure, Bell Canada solidifies its role as a key player in shaping the future of technology.