Sydney data centre to cool entirely with recycled water
NextDC's Sydney data centre will be cooled entirely with recycled water, the first major one in NSW to do so.
AquaNet is expanding its recycled water facility in Fairfield, western Sydney, to supply NextDC's data centre in nearby Horsley Park. The recycled water will start flowing in late 2027.
Recycled water comes from treated sewerage and storm runoff, now safe to reuse. Data centres use huge amounts of water to cool servers.
Sydney Water warned they could use up to 250 megalitres a day by 2035. Cooling without water needs 20 to 40 per cent more electricity.
Experts say recycled water is much better for the environment than other options and helps meet new NSW government rules for data centre builders.
- 16 million litres
- Daily water volume
- 250 megalitres a day
- Possible demand by 2035
- 20 to 40 per cent more
- Extra electricity needed
- Late 2027
- Start date
Why it mattersThis model could show the rapidly growing data centre industry how to reduce its impact on drinking water supplies.
AustraliaNSW is positioning itself as a data centre hub; using recycled water helps the state meet sustainability requirements while supporting industry growth.
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