AI Minister Evan Solomon announced the five‑point national framework on Thursday in Markham, Ontario, after several cities voiced strong opposition to new AI‑servicing facilities.

The framework asks developers to create lasting local benefits, avoid shifting electricity costs onto Canadians, minimise water use and other environmental impacts, be transparent about any local effects, and deliver strategic value for the country.

Because the principles are voluntary, they are not legally binding; the Minister said that approval decisions and enforcement will remain the responsibility of provincial regulators and municipal councils, not the federal government.

Signatories to the framework include Amazon, Anthropic, Google, Meta, Bell Canada and TELUS, and the plan has been endorsed by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities.

Local residents are worried about the high water and electricity consumption of AI data centres, the noise from backup generators and cooling fans, and the extra strain these facilities could place on aging power grids. A recent Ipsos AI Monitor survey showed that only 26 % of Canadians feel excited about AI, while 67 % say they are nervous about the technology.