Community Protests Against Gas-Powered Data Centres in NSW Southern Highlands
Community 'devastated' by plans for gas-powered data centres
Image: Abc
Residents near Moss Vale in New South Wales are protesting against plans by Cloud Carrier to build gas-fired power stations to supply energy for data centres. Over 200 locals expressed concerns about health impacts, emissions, and the potential precedent for future developments, as the Land and Environment Court reviews the proposal.
- 01Cloud Carrier plans to build three gas-fired power stations with a combined capacity exceeding 700 megawatts (MW) near Moss Vale.
- 02The largest plant would generate 673 MW, sufficient to power 70,000 homes daily.
- 03Local residents fear health risks and environmental impacts, with concerns that the project could set a precedent for future energy sources for data centres.
- 04The NSW government is facing pressure to ensure data centres operate on 100% renewable energy.
- 05The Land and Environment Court is currently reviewing a development application for a smaller 16 MW gas plant, with a decision expected next month.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Residents of Moss Vale, New South Wales, are expressing their distress over a proposal by Cloud Carrier to construct gas-fired power stations to supply energy for data centres. The company aims to build three plants with a total capacity of over 700 megawatts (MW), including a major facility capable of generating 673 MW, enough to power 70,000 homes daily. Over 200 local residents protested against the plans, voicing concerns about health risks, emissions, and the environmental impact of fossil fuels. Community members, including Wingecarribee Shire councillor Heather Champion, highlighted fears that this development could set a dangerous precedent for future data centres across the state. Clean energy advocates are urging the government to mandate that data centres operate on 100% renewable energy. The proposal is currently under review by the Land and Environment Court, which is considering a smaller gas plant application, with a decision anticipated next month. Local farmers are also worried about the potential pollution affecting their agricultural viability.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The proposed gas-fired power stations could significantly affect local health and environmental conditions, as well as impact agricultural viability in the area.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
Should gas-powered data centres be allowed in residential areas?
Connecting to poll...
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.