TELUS to Set Up Sovereign AI Factories in Kamloops & Rimouski

Core Insights - TELUS Corporation is launching the first Sovereign AI Factories in Rimouski, Quebec, and Kamloops, British Columbia, to enhance Canada's AI infrastructure and digital economy [1][6] - The facilities will utilize NVIDIA's advanced supercomputers and are expected to begin operations in summer 2024 [2] - The initiative aligns with the Pan-Canadian AI Strategy, focusing on secure and sustainable AI innovation [1][6] Group 1: Sovereign AI Factories - The Sovereign AI Factories will build on TELUS' legacy of regional innovation and support for startups, public institutions, and enterprises [3] - These facilities will ensure trusted data processing for critical sectors like healthcare and finance, powered by 99% renewable energy [4] - The innovative cooling systems will reduce water usage by over 75%, saving 17 million liters annually and cutting carbon emissions by more than 300 tons [4] Group 2: Strategic Placement and Partnerships - By establishing AI hubs in both eastern and western Canada, TELUS aims to democratize access to advanced computing and reinforce Canada's technological leadership [5] - The AI Factories will complement TELUS' Fuel iX platform, which offers secure generative AI solutions [5] Group 3: Investment and Growth - TELUS is investing $73 billion across Canada by 2028 to foster socio-economic growth, with significant allocations for Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia [7] - The company achieved a milestone by becoming the first to receive international certification in Privacy by Design for its generative AI customer support tool [7] Group 4: Stock Performance - TELUS currently holds a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold) and has seen a 5% increase in share price over the past three months, contrasting with a 4.2% decline in the industry [8]