
Bell Canada Unveils Ambitious Plans for Massive AI Data Centres in B.C.
2025-05-28
Author: William
Bell Canada Takes a Giant Leap into AI Services
In a groundbreaking move, Bell Canada has announced plans to establish six state-of-the-art artificial intelligence data centres in British Columbia. This initiative aims to create the largest AI computing project in the nation, marking a significant shift towards technological advancement.
Massive Power and Capacity at Play
The telecom giant, headquartered in Montreal, promises that these AI facilities will harness about 500 megawatts of hydroelectric power. This energy-efficient approach is designed to support a wide range of AI applications, from strategic development to infrastructure deployment for both businesses and governmental agencies.
Kickoff in Kamloops with Groq Partnership
The first of these AI data centres, boasting a capacity of seven megawatts, is set to launch next month in Kamloops, thanks to a partnership with Groq, a leading American AI inference provider. Groq’s advanced technology is particularly geared towards accelerating tasks associated with large language models—sophisticated algorithms that can analyze, translate, and generate text and content with impressive accuracy.
Setting New Standards in AI Performance
Jonathan Ross, founder and CEO of Groq, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "Groq’s advanced LPU technology, combined with Bell’s extensive fibre infrastructure, is setting a new standard in AI inference. We’re excited to bring these capabilities to Canada, significantly enhancing performance and affordability for AI-driven applications."
Expanding the Network: Future Facilities on the Horizon
Following the Kamloops centre, another is slated to open in Merritt, B.C., by year’s end. Furthermore, a collaborative project with Thompson Rivers University will result in a 26-megawatt facility scheduled for completion by 2026, with subsequent centres planned for 2027.
A Vision for Canadian AI Sovereignty
Bell’s ambitious AI Fabric project isn’t just about infrastructure; it’s designed to empower Canadian researchers, businesses, and public institutions with access to high-performance, environmentally responsible AI computing. CEO Mirko Bibic emphasized, "Through this investment, Bell is immediately bolstering Canada’s sovereign AI compute capacity, laying the groundwork for a thriving AI economy."
New Tech Services Brand: Ateko
In a related development, Bell has recently introduced Ateko, a tech services brand that consolidates its acquisitions of FX Innovation, HGC Technologies, and CloudKettle. This new umbrella brand aims to assist businesses in optimizing operations and leveraging AI, forming the bedrock of Bell’s vision to establish a $1-billion tech services division.