Meta Platforms (META, Financials), the social media and digital advertising company behind Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and Threads, has started construction on a 1-gigawatt data center in Sturgeon County, Alberta.
The project is Meta's first data center in Canada and its 33rd globally. The company said the facility will support artificial intelligence workloads and other technology services.
Meta expects the investment to exceed CAD $13 billion. The project is also expected to support about 3,000 construction jobs at peak activity and more than 300 permanent operations roles once completed.
The company said it will spend about CAD $60 million on local infrastructure, including roads and water systems. It also plans grants for regional nonprofit groups.
Meta said the facility's electricity use will be matched with 100% renewable energy. The site will also use a closed-loop liquid cooling system designed to reduce water consumption.
For investors, the project shows how much capital Meta is putting behind AI infrastructure. The next question is whether that spending can support stronger AI products, advertising tools and long-term returns.