Following the release of Alberta’s Artificial Intelligence Data Centre Strategy in December 2024, there have been significant legislative and policy changes related to property assessment, taxation, electricity policy, and other areas that directly affect the data centre sector.
Given the scope and pace of the changes, many RMA members have questions and are seeking general guidance on data centre developments within their municipalities.
To assist members in navigating this emerging industry, RMA has developed a member resource that summarizes the policy and legislative landscape from December 2024 through March 2026 and supports members in making informed decisions about projects in their municipalities.
RMA’s Data Centre Primer provides an overview of the recent changes and decisions impacting the data centre landscape including legislative amendments, electricity availability, water usage considerations, municipal assessment implications, and the Data Centre Computing Equipment Levy.
Given that the legislative and policy landscape regarding data centres has been in near constant flux for the past 18 months and further changes are likely, RMA’s Data Centre Primer will be periodically updated to reflect the current state of affairs and ensure members have access to timely, accurate information.
Joseph Kay
Policy Advisor
587.689.5484
joseph@rmalberta.com
Warren Noga
Manager of Policy and Research
825.319.2285
warren@rmalberta.com