The Kurri data centre, a proposed $1.3 billion project, is facing a unique challenge: its energy demands. The centre, set to be built on the site of the former Kurri Aluminium smelter, will be a massive energy consumer, akin to a "whale" in the words of Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen. This has led to discussions about its power supply, with a potential solution emerging from an unexpected source.
A Whale of a Problem
Data centres, like the one at Kurri, are energy-intensive beasts. A single ChatGPT search uses 10 times more electricity than a Google search, according to Bowen. By 2030, data centres are projected to consume a staggering six percent of Australia's energy production, and by 2050, that figure could soar to 10 percent. This has prompted the federal government to mandate that data centres generate their own power, ensuring they don't strain the national grid and drive up electricity prices.
The Kurri Solution
AirTrunk, the developer of the Kurri data centre, is exploring a creative solution. They are in talks with Snowy Hydro to utilize the neighboring gas peaker plant, designed to provide on-demand energy during peak demand periods. This plant, running on gas with diesel as a backup, could act as a bridge between clean energy and fossil fuels, ensuring the data centre's energy needs are met.
A Balancing Act
Sabooh Whitelaw, AirTrunk's head of energy, acknowledges the potential of this arrangement. She suggests that using the gas peaker could be beneficial not only for the data centre but also for the community, especially during periods of high electricity demand. However, she also emphasizes the importance of maximizing renewable energy sources. AirTrunk aims to achieve 70-75 percent clean energy by 2028, with the ambitious goal of reaching 90-100 percent by 2030.
A Quantum Leap
The Kurri project, as described by McCloy Group chairman Paul Broad, represents a significant development for the region. With a 15-year planning history, the data centre promises to create a multitude of employment opportunities, particularly for young people in the area. However, the energy demands of such a project raise questions about the balance between technological advancement and environmental sustainability.
The Future of Energy
The story of the Kurri data centre highlights the complex relationship between technology and energy. As data centres continue to grow in number and energy consumption, finding sustainable solutions becomes increasingly crucial. The use of gas peaker plants and the push for renewable energy sources are just two aspects of a broader conversation about how we power our digital world in the future.
