The Toronto City Council met on Thursday to discuss a pressing issue: the impact of AI data centres on the city's infrastructure.
Toronto councillor Dianne Saxe, representing the University-Rosedale ward, brought up the topic, citing concerns about the centres' effects on electricity grids and water consumption.
Saxe referenced a recent Level 3 alert issued by the US national electrical regulatory commission, warning of the potential for data centres to bring down entire electricity grids due to their rapid ramp-up and down.
She also shared a shocking incident in the US where over a gigawatt of energy was lost from the grid in a matter of seconds.
Saxe argued that the city needs to take action to regulate data centres and ensure they operate sustainably and efficiently.
She proposed that the city adopt a document from the C40 Cities non-governmental organization, outlining a vision for data centres that prioritizes sustainability, accountability, and community focus.
However, the motion was ruled out of order by Speaker Frances Nunziata, who deemed it unrelated to the main topic of discussion.
Other councillors expressed concerns that the proposal was premature and would step on the toes of a report already ordered by the city.
Despite the setback, Saxe remains committed to the cause, emphasizing the need for better management, regulation, and standards to ensure data centres operate responsibly.
The debate highlights the complex issues surrounding data centres and the need for city officials to work together to create a vision for sustainable and efficient operation.
