As we reflect on 2024, Canada’s data centre market has shown remarkable growth while navigating complexities related to energy supply, regulatory frameworks, and sustainability. These dynamics underscore Canada’s potential to emerge as a leader in the global digital economy. Below, we explore the year’s key developments and opportunities shaping the future of Canada’s data centre landscape.
Energy: Balancing Supply and Demand
The rapid adoption and expansion in size and capabilities of AI technologies have amplified energy demands across the data centre industry. Rack densities, previously maxing out at 2 kW, can now reach 200+ kW, requiring innovative construction techniques to handle these power-intensive workloads. This year, advancements in inference AI at the edge – including network equipment and GPU deployment – emerged as a potential game-changer, signalling new dimensions to energy demand that will likely accelerate by 2025.
While energy availability remains a consideration, Canada’s clean energy grid and growing focus on renewable energy solutions present opportunities for sustainable growth. By investing in infrastructure to meet increasing energy demands, Canada can enhance its competitive edge in the global market.
Sustainability: Innovations Drive Progress
Sustainability remained at the forefront in 2024, with data centres adopting hybrid, liquid, and alternative cooling systems to improve energy efficiency. Technologies such as Enwave’s Deep Lake Water Cooling system in Toronto highlight Canada’s commitment to reducing the environmental impact of data centre operations. These advancements position Canada as a trailblazer in sustainable practices, particularly as global demand for greener technologies continues to grow.
Governments are also exploring new sustainability initiatives, such as mandating improved power usage effectiveness (PUE) metrics. These measures encourage innovation and align the industry with broader environmental goals. With its focus on renewable energy and cutting-edge cooling solutions, Canada is well-equipped to meet future sustainability challenges while enhancing operational efficiency.
Growing Market: Opportunities for Expansion
Canada’s data centre market is evolving, with 2024 showcasing significant opportunities. The country offers a unique value proposition, including its cool climate, robust data privacy regulations, rapid technological advancements, and a clean energy grid. These factors make Canada a prime location for organizations looking to expand their digital infrastructure.
Telehouse Canada is well-positioned to capitalize on these opportunities. Leveraging its deep expertise in connectivity and a strong commitment to innovation, the company is dedicated to advancing energy-efficient practices, adopting sustainable methods, and enhancing operational resilience. As the market evolves, Telehouse Canada is adopting collaborative approaches to ensure long-term growth. Through these efforts, the company is helping position Canada as a leader in modern digital infrastructure, driving both local and global advancements.
Looking ahead to 2025, Canada has significant opportunities to capture incoming investment, leverage the rapid expansion of AI, and position its data centre market for long-term, sustainable growth. By focusing on energy solutions, sustainability, and strategic investment in key markets, the sector will continue establishing itself as a leader in the global market and attract the next wave of innovation.