Current Data Centre Projects in Olds
Synapse has proposed a large-scale data centre development connected to Olds.
The project has engaged with the provincial regulatory process through the Alberta Utilities Commission. The application process is subject to change.
Information related to project design, potential impacts, and mitigation measures has been shared by the developer. This information is provided by the developer and is separate from the Town’s review and decision-making processes.
The developer has created a webpage to respond to common questions:
https://synapsedatacenter.com/we-are-listening
Regulatory Review Process
Led by: Alberta Utilities Commission
How to participate: Current applications - AUC (search for "Synapse Real Estate Corp.") Proceeding 30732
Status: OPEN
The Synapse Data Centre proposal was resubmitted early April and has begun its AUC application process. Any documents submitted by the public for or against the previous application will need to be re-submitted as well. The AUC process includes opportunities for public participation. Residents can review application materials and learn how to take part through the AUC’s E-Filing system. This is where important information is assessed, including noise impacts, natural gas co-location plans, and emissions modelling.
Participate in an AUC proceeding - AUC
Read common AUC questions from the public on the town website and watch their public presentation to council from April 27, 2026.
Development Permit Application
Led by: Town of Olds
How to participate: Contact planning@olds.ca or reach out to your Town Council.
Status: CLOSED - No submission has been received at this time.
Data District Inc. has purchased land in Olds and has been working with Invest Olds on early planning and site readiness.
At this time, no formal development or regulatory application has been submitted.
More information about this project is available on the Town’s website:
https://www.olds.ca/business-development/planning-building-and-development/data-centre-development/
Development Permit Application
Led by: Town of Olds
How to participate: Contact planning@olds.ca or reach out to your Town Council.
Status: CLOSED - No submission has been received at this time.
Rules, Regulations & Roles
Data centre projects may involve more than one approval process, depending on the type and scale of development.
In general, the process may include:
- Local planning and land use considerations by the Town of Olds
- Provincial review and approval through agencies such as the Alberta Utilities Commission
- Technical, environmental, and operational assessments required as part of those processes
Each project follows its own path through these processes.
Timelines, requirements, and opportunities for public input may vary.
More detailed information, including frequently asked questions, is available on the Town’s website:
https://www.olds.ca/business-development/planning-building-and-development/data-centre-development/
The Town of Olds is responsible for local planning and land use decisions within municipal boundaries. This includes:
- Zoning and land use bylaws
- Reviewing development applications submitted to the Town
- Ensuring local regulations and policies are followed. Some large-scale infrastructure projects, including data centres, may also require approvals from external agencies such as the Alberta Utilities Commission.
These agencies are responsible for:
- Reviewing and approving certain types of infrastructure and utility projects
- Assessing technical, environmental, and operational impacts
- Leading public input processes related to those approvals
This means that not all decisions related to these projects are made by the Town. Where approvals are required from external agencies, the Town does not have the authority to approve or deny those applications.
Different organizations are responsible for different parts of the process:
Government of Alberta
For questions related to the Provincial Data Centre Strategy contact
- Tara Sawyer - United Conservative Party of Alberta
- Nate Glubish - Minister of Technology and Innovation
Town of Olds
For questions related to local planning, land use, and information on the Town's Business Development page: https://www.olds.ca/business-development/planning-...
Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC)
For questions related to provincial review processes, applications, and public input opportunities led by the AUC: https://www.auc.ab.ca
Project Developers
For project-specific details, design information, and technical questions:
- Synapse: https://synapsedatacenter.com/we-are-listening/
- Data District: https://data-district.com/#contact
Contacting the appropriate organization will help ensure your questions are addressed as efficiently as possible.
About This Page
This page provides a high-level overview of current and potential data centre developments connected to Olds.
The intention is to help residents understand the status of the project, how to participate, and to clarify where to direct questions and concerns.
Questions and Updates
Residents can submit questions related to data centre development in Olds to planning@olds.ca
All questions are reviewed. Common questions will be addressed through the FAQ page on the Town's website.
