Insights with Don Mills and David Campbell- An Acadia Broadcasting Podcast Powering the Future: Can Saint John Become Canada’s Next Data Centre Hub?
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Feb 19, 2026 
Nathan Ough, President and CEO of VoltaGrid and Saint John native, outlines a bold plan to build a massive data centre with on-site power. He discusses behind-the-meter generation, natural gas and emissions controls, supply-chain and financing scale, waterless power design, and why Saint John’s port, fiber and land make it attractive for large AI infrastructure.
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Engineer First, Permit Later
- Don't rush permitting; re-engineer designs to address community concerns on noise and emissions.
- Nathan recommends pausing to implement quieter fans and back-compliant SCRs before formal submission.
Design Eliminates Operational Water Use
- The planned power plant will be effectively waterless for operations apart from toilets.
- Nathan emphasizes zero water consumption to counter local freshwater concerns.
Skilled Trades Drive Long-Term Jobs
- Long-term operational roles will be technicians, mechanics, electricians and welders for rotating equipment maintenance.
- Nathan expects many hires to retire at VoltaGrid under 15+ year contracts and pay at global scales.