From Abc · · 1m 50s
Gas plant for NSW data centre could close in two years
Nakar Property argues its $23 million power station is temporary, needed only until the grid can supply enough energy for the Moss Vale data centre.
In brief
Nakar Property argues its $23 million power station is temporary, needed only until the grid can supply enough energy for the Moss Vale data centre. Nakar Property told the NSW Land and Environment Court its gas power plant for a Moss Vale data centre could be mothballed once grid supply becomes available, but the…
Developer appeals data centre power plant
Nakar Property is appealing in the NSW Land and Environment Court after Wingecarribee Shire Council refused its application to build a sixteen megawatt gas power station and battery storage system in Moss Vale.
Power plant needed for firm supply
Barrister James Smith told the court the gas station is essential to provide constant power for Cloud Carrier's data centre campus. Cloud Carrier's investment in computers is circa a one billion dollars.
“It's akin to enrolling your child in school without any teachers; Cloud Carrier can't sell any product unless there is firm supply.”
Gas plant could be mothballed by 2029
Mr Smith said developers would stop using gas power once the grid can supply enough energy. Grid connection would save approximately fourteen million dollars per year, creating clear financial incentive to switch.
“The cost savings per year via connecting to the grid is approximately $14 million per year.”
Grid supply not properly investigated
Barrister Michael Staunton for Wingecarribee Shire Council argued that grid power has been touted as a panacea but not thoroughly investigated. He said necessary work and investigation should have been done.
“All of that work and investigation should have been done, and you'll find when you get to the documents, it hasn't been.”
No secure power for two years
Mr Staunton argued the project would lack secure power to fill full server capacity for two years, until an upgrade of a nearby Endeavour Energy substation is completed.That time could be spent negotiating permanent connection.
“You've got no firm supply for two years.”
Hearing continues with expert witnesses
Cross-examination of expert air-quality, electrical and engineering consultants continued on the second day of hearings before Commissioner Nicola Targett. The matter returns to court on Thursday for a third day.
The one thing
Nakar Property told the NSW Land and Environment Court its gas power plant for a Moss Vale data centre could be mothballed once grid supply becomes available, but the council argues grid connection has not been properly investigated.
