DELANEY: An AI data centre for Cape Breton is worth a look

Advertisement 1 This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Breadcrumb Trail Links HomeCape BretonCape Breton OpinionOpinion DELANEY: An AI data centre for Cape Breton is worth a look AI is not the future. It is the now and the future. Author of the article: By David Delaney  •  For The Cape Breton Post Published Sep 16, 2026 3 minute read A data centre is an opportunity for the local Cape Breton economy to pursue, according to columnist David Delaney. PHOTO BY PAINTERR /Getty Images Article content Talk of our so-called trade war with the United States is the dominant focus of public discussion and media fixation. There is, however, another issue which most certainly will be of longer-lasting and more significant impact. It is, of course, the burgeoning development and utility of artificial intelligence technology. Article content Article content Artificial Intelligence, or “A.I., as it is more commonly called, is at the forefront of Western economic growth. Article content Article content We are well past the point of debating whether to use AI. The genie is out of the bottle and this latest triumph of human development is here to stay. This is a good thing, provided its use its subject to proper public oversight, control and regulation. Article content These things said, there is an opportunity for the local Cape Breton economy to pursue. In saying pursue, I am suggesting to study as perhaps a feasible option and not engage in a reckless enterprise swept along by outside interests concerned only with predatory and short-term profiteering. All too often we fall prey to carpetbaggers motivated by nothing other than a payday followed by a quick exit strategy. Article content WHAT IS A DATA CENTRE? Article content So, wherein lay that opportunity? In none other than the possible location of an AI Data Centre here on this island. It’s worth a serious and careful look. Article content First, a reminder of what a data centre is and what it does. In basic terms, it’s a large building filled with computers, performing numerous functions. Among such functions are: training artificial intelligence, running AI applications and processing large amounts of data (including medical and financial information). AI computers generate much heat, so cooling is essential. Such centres consume enormous amounts of electricity, the total of course depending on their size. Article content Article content The centres are…