Canada has published an Advanced Procurement Notice for a data center in Ontario, with estimated cost between CA$1.5bn and $1.85bn.

Defence Construction Canada has issued a public Advanced Procurement Notice (APN) for a data center project in the National Capital Region of Ontario.

According to the APN, the notice covers a "modify design built" contract and is expected to be posted in the winter of 2027.

The contract will be valued at between CA$1.5bn (US$1.06bn) and CA$1.85bn (US$1.31bn). The data center will offer 60MW of IT capacity.

The APN states: "To increase its capacity in supporting the mid- to long-term objectives related to operations, security, and technology modernization, the Government of Canada is planning to design and construct a data center facility within the National Capital Region [sic].

"This data center of 60MW will enable the onboarding of next-generation capabilities with tailored mechanical and electrical configurations to meet distinct technology requirements throughout the facility. The proposed data center facility will also include a small office space and a shipping and receiving area."

The winning company must hold security clearance. Defence Construction Canada is offering early access to this clearance for applicants through sponsorship.

The notice does not specify an exact location for the data center or provide construction timelines.

Defence Construction Canada is a crown corporation that handles infrastructure and environmental projects for Canada's Department of Defence. The corporation was founded in 1951. Its current projects include the Edward Drake Building in Ottawa, air hangar builds, and energy performance contracts.