Firmus plans 1,300MW data centre in South Australia amid council concerns
Port Augusta council questions a proposed 1,300-megawatt data centre. Their main concerns are water use, road impacts, and rates exemptions.
Firmus Technologies is planning a 1,300-megawatt data centre in South Australia's mid-north. It would be about 4.5 kilometres southeast of Stirling North.
The site is in Port Augusta council's area. The development would include ten AI data halls, a substation, and surrounding infrastructure.
Port Augusta City Council has raised several unanswered questions. These cover the site's true size, how close it is to existing infrastructure, and how it affects local roads.
The company plans to use 345 megalitres of water per year. It uses a closed-loop cooling system with recycled water and rainwater.
It does not connect to the town's water mains. Council also wants to make sure Firmus would not get any rates exemptions or breaks.
The state government confirmed it has no plans to introduce tax or rates exemptions for data centre projects in South Australia.
- 1,300 megawatts
- Proposed data centre capacity
- 345 megalitres
- Annual water use
- 4.5 kilometres
- Distance from Stirling North
- 600 megawatts per year
- Gunvor energy supply agreement
Why it mattersThe data centre would be a major employer and energy user in the region. But council approval depends on answering questions about local effects and fair rates treatment.
AustraliaThis development could shape South Australia's role as a data centre hub, affecting water supply for Port Augusta, local infrastructure, and the regional economy.
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