The excitement swirling around AI often obscures the infrastructure that makes it possible. Since long before AI was at the forefront of technology discussions, datacenters have been powering technology and Jonathan Schroth returns to discuss datacenter markets and the complex forces that impact them with host Eric Hanselman. Datacenter demand is driven by the need for capacity in power, as well as interconnection. Recent subsea cable landings in the Pacific Northwest that link Pacific and Asian markets are driving demand in Oregon and Vancouver. That’s in spite of higher costs in the latter. Interconnection is also a factor in Toronto.

Constraints on power capacity are impacting these markets, as well as shaping the situation across Canada. What was once plentiful hydroelectric power around the Columbia River Gorge, is seen as beginning to plateau while demand continues to increase. The situation is the same in Eastern Canada, as winter power demands are exceeding what can be delivered by hydro. In the distant future, nuclear power could play a role, if small modular reactor designs can be deployed, but some locations, such as Oregon, have nuclear bans in place. Once again, key factors beyond the underlying technologies are the key factors in growth.

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Credits:

• Host/Author: Eric Hanselman
• Guests: Jonathan Schroth
• Producer/Editor: Donovan Menard and Odesha Chan
• Published With Assistance From: Sophie Carr, Feranmi Adeoshun, Kyra Smith