# Source note

Canada’s AI data-centre rush: sovereign compute or a power-bill shock for families?

Sources:
- ISED: Canada’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy: AI for All: https://ised-isde.canada.ca/site/ised/en/canadas-national-artificial-intelligence-strategy-ai-all — supports the 5.5 GW estimate, sovereign compute language and constrained-grid context.
- ConstructConnect / Canadian Press: data-centre capacity could soar to 20 GW: https://canada.constructconnect.com/dcn/news/resource/2026/07/data-centre-capacity-could-soar-to-20-gw-in-planned-projects-government-document — supports the ATIP pitch-deck figure and government caveat.
- CityNews / Canadian Press: data-centre impact poll: https://vancouver.citynews.ca/2026/07/18/fears-are-widespread-about-data-centre-impacts-on-canadas-water-environment-poll/ — supports public concern over power bills and environmental impacts.

Evidence notes:
- Verified/source-backed: federal strategy text, 5.5 GW estimate, CP reporting on ISED documents and CP/Leger poll findings as reported.
- Government caveat: the 20 GW figure is described as a snapshot of proposals, not a forecast that all projects will be built.
- Opinion/analysis: NewsForBC argues for public-benefit and ratepayer-impact ledgers before power or subsidies are committed.