Web Desk: A new Leger survey has found that a large majority of Canadians are concerned about the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) data centres, with many fearing that the growing demand for electricity could lead to higher household power bills and increased environmental impacts.
According to the nationwide survey, 81% of respondents said they are worried that AI data centres could contribute to rising residential electricity costs. As the use of artificial intelligence continues to expand across industries, the demand for large-scale computing facilities has increased significantly, raising questions about energy consumption and long-term infrastructure planning.
The survey also revealed that 79% of Canadians are concerned about the environmental impact of data centres. These facilities require substantial amounts of electricity to power thousands of computer servers while also consuming large volumes of water to keep equipment cool. Environmental experts have noted that depending on how electricity is generated, data centres can also contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.
Despite these concerns, Canadians remain divided over the construction of new AI infrastructure. When asked whether Canada should build more domestic AI data centres to support locally developed artificial intelligence services, 46% of respondents expressed support, saying the facilities would help Canada maintain greater control over its own data and digital infrastructure.
However, 37% opposed the idea, citing concerns over electricity demand, environmental sustainability, and the potential financial burden on taxpayers and utility customers.
Public opinion was similarly split when respondents were asked about building data centres within their own provinces. The survey found that 44% supported local projects, while 42% opposed having new AI data centres developed in their communities.
The survey also indicated that awareness of the issue is relatively high. Around 62% of respondents said they were already familiar with AI data centres and understood their role in supporting artificial intelligence technologies, cloud computing, and digital services.
Canadians also shared differing opinions on how electricity should be supplied to future AI facilities. Fifty-eight percent said provincial governments or public electricity providers should continue supplying power to data centres as part of the country’s infrastructure development.
At the same time, nearly one-third of respondents argued that electricity should only be provided if technology companies pay the full cost of the required power generation and supporting infrastructure themselves. Another 31% said companies operating AI data centres should not rely on the public electricity grid at all and should instead generate or secure their own energy supplies.
The findings come as Canada prepares for significant growth in AI infrastructure over the coming years. Industry analysts expect numerous new data centres to be built across the country, with Alberta emerging as one of the leading destinations due to its available land, expanding technology sector, and access to electricity generated by natural gas-powered facilities.
The online survey was conducted by Leger between July 10 and July 13, 2026, and included responses from 1,505 Canadians. The results highlight the growing public debate over balancing technological innovation with energy affordability, environmental protection, and the future of Canada’s electricity grid.
