AI is creating one of the largest infrastructure investment cycles in modern history, and Canada is positioning itself to play a significant role.
In this episode of Sustainability Leaders, BMO Climate Institute Senior Advisor Alma Cortés Selva speaks with John Gibson, Director, Equity Research, Industrial and Energy Services, BMO Capital Markets, about the rapid growth of AI-driven data center development and what it could mean for Canada’s economy.
They explore the scale of the investment opportunity, Canada’s competitive advantages in energy, climate, land availability, and policy, and the emerging frameworks designed to balance economic growth with reliability, environmental responsibility, and community benefits. The conversation also examines sovereignty over data and computing infrastructure, evolving energy demand, and why planning for power, water, and local engagement will be critical to building AI infrastructure responsibly.