Queensland data centre would draw quarter of state's power
A proposed Queensland data centre could use about 47 gigawatt-hours daily. That's roughly 25 per cent of the state's power.
Zerra DC's Western Downs Digital Park would be built 250 kilometres west of Brisbane. It would sit on a cattle feedlot.
At peak capacity, it would draw 2.16 gigawatts of power. That would power 1.5 million average Australian homes.
Over time, the four-phase project could use about 47 gigawatt-hours daily. Queensland's average power supply is 170 gigawatt-hours.
The Western Downs Regional Council is considering the development application. Experts warn that new power generation must be built quickly.
The project could take four to six years to build once approved. Zerra DC will connect straight to a major power substation.
It won't use local distribution lines.
- 47 gigawatt-hours
- Daily power draw at full capacity
- 2.16 gigawatts
- Peak capacity
- 25 per cent
- Percentage of state power
- 250 kilometres west
- Distance from Brisbane
Why it mattersThe project could force Queensland and Australia to rapidly expand electricity generation. They must decide whether to build new coal, gas or renewable capacity.
AustraliaQueensland's power grid faces pressure to expand, which will affect electricity prices and how the state invests in energy infrastructure over the next decade.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 11 d ago
